The last-minute decision by the Prime Minister’s Office to oust the fallen president of the Flacq District Council reflects the political dilemma facing Pravind Jugnauth’s regime. On one hand, there’s a need to strengthen bases in rural areas a year before legislative elections, and on the other, there’s a need to ensure adherence to the rule of law, especially following the vote and enactment of the Financial Crimes Commission.

Flanked by rural ministers, whose influence never extends beyond their constituencies, Kishore Kumar Jeewooth clung shamelessly to his position, immovable as a rock, as a Poste-deFlacq counsellor commented to l’express.

The law is clear, albeit incomplete. If not revoked or resigned, the Minister of Local Government, Anwar Husnoo, had to explain to Judge Patrick Kam Sin the reasons why Jeewooth would survive the censure motion voted against him.

This decision followed a directive filed by the district counsellor of Ecroignard village, Chanda Dev Bundhoo, who questioned why Minister Husnoo had not yet ousted the fallen president even though the seven-day deadline for organizing a new presidential election was well past. Following this directive, Judge Patrick Kam Sin summoned Minister Husnoo for his explanations. However, the Prime Minister’s Office realized it was in their interest to take initiative, to avoid, for political reasons, Husnoo getting involved in the ethno-caste issues of the Flacq council; the latter is better suited for dealing with street vendors than with Eastern advisors, skilled in political party practices and agendas.

Kishore Kumar Jeewooth loses nothing. He remains in the power circle and will continue working on the ground. He was sacrificed in public opinion but wasn’t sent to the Flacq slaughterhouse. The work he began in the local community with two local ministers must continue, away from the blind eyes of justice...