Who is Navin Ramgoolam, and what are his primary political roles?

Navin Ramgoolam is a prominent Mauritian politician who currently serves as the Prime Minister of Mauritius, a position he has held since November 2024. He previously served as Prime Minister for two earlier terms: from 1995 to 2000 and again from 2005 to 2014. He is also the leader of the Labour Party (Mauritius).

When and where was Navin Ramgoolam born?

Navin Ramgoolam was born on July 14, 1947, in Port Louis, which was then British Mauritius.

Who were Navin Ramgoolam's parents, and what were their significant roles in Mauritian history?

Navin Ramgoolam's parents were Seewoosagur Ramgoolam and Sushil Ramjoorawon. His father, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, was a pivotal figure in Mauritian history, serving as the island's first Chief Minister and Prime Minister, and later as Governor-General. This lineage places Navin Ramgoolam within a significant political dynasty in Mauritius.

What medical and legal qualifications does Navin Ramgoolam hold?

Navin Ramgoolam is a qualified physician, having studied medicine in Ireland from 1968 to 1975 and obtained the LRCP&SI. He later pursued legal studies in the United Kingdom, earning an LLB from the London School of Economics and Political Science in 1990.

What event prompted Navin Ramgoolam to return to Mauritian politics and assume leadership of the Labour Party?

Following the death of his father, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, in December 1985, Navin Ramgoolam was persuaded by prominent political figures Sir Satcam Boolell and Paul Bérenger to return to Mauritius. They encouraged him to take leadership of the Labour Party with the goal of forming a political alliance to challenge the incumbent government in upcoming elections.

What alliance did Navin Ramgoolam form for the 1995 Mauritian general election, and what was its electoral success?

For the 1995 general election, Ramgoolam's Labour Party formed an alliance with the Mauritian Militant Movement (MMM). This coalition achieved a remarkable victory, winning all 60 directly elected seats from the mainland, with Labour securing 35 seats and the MMM winning 25.

What positions did Ramgoolam and Paul Bérenger hold following the 1995 elections, and how did their coalition evolve?

After the 1995 election victory, Navin Ramgoolam became Prime Minister, with Paul Bérenger serving as his Deputy Prime Minister. However, the coalition soon faced internal divisions, leading to Bérenger's dismissal in 1997. Bérenger subsequently became the Leader of the Opposition, and Ramgoolam continued to lead a one-party government.

What was the electoral arrangement between the MSM and MMM in the 2000 Mauritian general election, and what was Ramgoolam's role?

In the 2000 elections, the MSM and MMM formed an alliance with an agreement that the MSM leader would serve as Prime Minister for the first three years, then resign to become President, allowing the MMM leader to complete the remaining term. Navin Ramgoolam, allied with the Mauritian Party of Xavier-Luc Duval (PMXD), became the Leader of the Opposition after his alliance secured fewer seats than the MSM/MMM coalition.

What was the outcome of the 2005 Mauritian general election for Navin Ramgoolam's Alliance Sociale?

Navin Ramgoolam's coalition, the Alliance Sociale, won the 2005 general elections, securing 38 out of the 60 available seats. This victory led to his reappointment as Prime Minister of Mauritius.

What impact did the 2005 election results have on the opposition coalition in Mauritius?

The consecutive electoral defeats and internal instability following the 2005 election led to the eventual break-up of the MSM/MMM coalition that had previously governed Mauritius.

What alliance did Ramgoolam form for the 2010 elections, and what was its electoral success?

For the 2010 general elections, Ramgoolam formed the Alliance de L'Avenir, which included the Labour Party, the MSM, and the PMSD. This alliance was successful, winning 41 out of the 60 directly elected seats, and Ramgoolam continued in his role as Prime Minister.

What event led to the dismissal of the MSM from Ramgoolam's government after the 2010 elections?

Following the involvement of some members of the MSM in the Medpoint Scandal, Navin Ramgoolam dismissed the MSM party from his coalition government.

What was the 'Second Republic' proposal during the 2014 Mauritian general election campaign?

The 'Second Republic' was a proposal put forth by the Labour Party and MMM alliance during the 2014 election campaign. It involved a constitutional amendment to grant the presidency a less ceremonial role. The plan stipulated that if the alliance won more than 45 seats, Ramgoolam would run for President, and Bérenger would succeed him as Prime Minister.

Who opposed the 'Second Republic' proposal, and what was the outcome of the 2014 election for Ramgoolam?

The MSM-led Alliance Lepep, which included the PMSD and Muvman Liberater, opposed the 'Second Republic' proposal. The Alliance Lepep secured a decisive victory with 47 seats, while Ramgoolam's alliance won only 13 seats. Crucially, Ramgoolam lost his own parliamentary seat for the first time, leading to his resignation as Prime Minister.

What was Ramgoolam's reaction to losing his seat in the 2014 election?

Ramgoolam expressed significant displeasure over losing his seat in the 2014 election. Three years later, he publicly criticized the voters of his constituency as 'stupid' and suggested they were easier to manipulate in the past. He also drew parallels between his defeat and his father's loss in the 1982 election, attributing his own loss partly to internal party infighting.

What coalition did Ramgoolam lead in the 2019 Mauritian general election, and what was the outcome for him personally?

In the 2019 general election, Ramgoolam led the Alliance Nationale coalition, which included the Parti Mauricien Social Démocrate (PMSD) and the Mouvement Jean-Claude Barbier. Despite changing his constituency for the election, Ramgoolam was not elected to the National Assembly for the second consecutive time.

What reasons did Ramgoolam give for changing his constituency in the 2019 elections?

Ramgoolam stated that he changed his constituency from No.5 Triolet to No.10 Montagne Blanche and Grand River South East based on advice from a Christian priest. The priest reportedly believed the new constituency would bring him luck, unlike Triolet, where his father was cremated and where Ramgoolam had lost in 2014.

What was the composition of the 'Alliance du changement' coalition in the 2024 Mauritian general election?

The 'Alliance du changement' coalition for the 2024 general election comprised the Labour Party, the Mauritian Militant Movement (MMM), Nouveau Démocrate, and Rezistans ek Alternativ.

What was the result of the 2024 Mauritian general election for the 'Alliance du changement'?

The 'Alliance du changement' achieved a landslide victory in the 2024 general election, winning all 60 seats available in the National Assembly.

What was the immediate consequence of the 2024 election results for Navin Ramgoolam?

Following the election victory and the resignation of the previous Prime Minister, Pravind Jugnauth, Navin Ramgoolam was sworn in for his third term as Prime Minister of Mauritius on November 12, 2024.

What was Navin Ramgoolam's stance on the Chagos Archipelago agreement with the UK in 2024?

In 2024, Ramgoolam criticized the agreement between the Mauritian government and the United Kingdom regarding the return of the Chagos Archipelago, calling it a 'sellout'. After assuming office, he ordered an independent review of this agreement.

Why was Navin Ramgoolam arrested in London in May 1978?

Navin Ramgoolam was arrested in London in May 1978 for dangerous driving, including running a red light and making an illegal U-turn. He also refused to provide a breath specimen and subsequently tested positive for excess alcohol in his blood, leading to charges and a fine at Marlborough Street Magistrate Court.

What incident involving Navin Ramgoolam and his father was recalled by Harish Boodhoo?

Harish Boodhoo recalled an incident at Le Château de Réduit shortly after Sushil Ramgoolam's death in January 1984, where an intoxicated Navin Ramgoolam allegedly assaulted his father, Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, and threatened him with a sword.

What was the 'Albion Gate' or 'Affaire Macarena' scandal in 1997?

The 'Albion Gate' or 'Affaire Macarena' scandal in March 1997 involved a party at a Labour Party activist's bungalow where young women were allegedly pressured to dance and undress to the song 'Macarena.' Navin Ramgoolam was reportedly present. The incident led to the state radio banning the song and contributed to the collapse of the Labour-MMM coalition within three months.

What allegations were made against Yatin Varma in 2009 concerning his income and role?

In December 2009, Minister Vasant Bunwaree alleged in parliament that Yatin Varma, a close associate and campaign manager for Prime Minister Ramgoolam, received additional income as legal counsel for several parastatal institutions while already being paid as a Member of the National Assembly. Bunwaree also mentioned Varma's involvement in tax evasion. Despite these revelations, Ramgoolam did not initiate an investigation or sanction Varma.

What controversy surrounded Jessica Weber's role in the Prime Minister's Office?

A position titled 'VIP Facilitation Organizer' was specifically created within the Prime Minister's Office for Jessica Weber in 2013. She was recruited by the CEO of Airports of Mauritius Ltd without board approval. Despite receiving a substantial monthly salary, investigations revealed a lack of evidence for any organized events and no clear justification for her numerous overseas trips with Ramgoolam.

What incident of verbal abuse involving Navin Ramgoolam occurred in May 2010?

During a public meeting on May 1, 2010, Navin Ramgoolam became frustrated with a malfunctioning microphone and verbally abused Nita Deerpalsing, the Labour Party's director of communication, with a derogatory remark. This incident was broadcast live and widely shared on social media.

What controversy arose from Ramgoolam's 2010 bungalow purchase?

It was revealed that in 2010, Ramgoolam obtained a Rs 40 million loan from Bramer Bank to purchase a bungalow. The loan was reportedly guaranteed by BAI, a company associated with Ramgoolam's major sponsor, Dawood Rawat, and the funds originated from a pension fund called 'Super Cash Back Gold.' Contributors to this fund later lost their pensions when BAI collapsed, while Ramgoolam allegedly did not repay the loan.

Who is Nandanee Soornack, and what was her connection to Navin Ramgoolam revealed in 2014?

Nandanee Soornack, described as Navin Ramgoolam's girlfriend and associate, fled to Italy shortly after the 2014 general elections. She later revealed that Ramgoolam was the father of her daughter, Xara Keiron Chandra, who was born in 2009. Soornack had gained significant wealth and influence through government contracts after becoming a Labour Party activist.

What was reported about Navin Ramgoolam's activities in London in 2014 involving a Rolls-Royce?

In 2014, Navin Ramgoolam was reportedly seen in London in a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce with the license plate 'RR10RAM'. He was observed carrying a suitcase to a bank, where a bank attendant recognized and addressed him as 'Mr Banker'.

For what alleged offenses was Navin Ramgoolam arrested in February 2015?

In February 2015, Navin Ramgoolam was arrested on allegations of conspiracy, money laundering, and involvement in a July 2011 robbery case known as 'Affaire Roches-Noires'.

What items were found during the police search of Ramgoolam's home in 2015?

During the police search of his residence in Floréal, safes and suitcases were discovered containing approximately $6.4 million in various foreign currencies, nine exclusive American Express Black credit cards, and packets of Viagra.

Why were the charges against Ramgoolam dropped after his 2015 arrest?

The charges filed against Navin Ramgoolam following his 2015 arrest were eventually dropped due to a lack of sufficient evidence and delays by the prosecution in formally lodging the case.

What scandal emerged during the 2024 electoral campaign related to phone tapping?

During the 2024 electoral campaign, audio recordings of public figures were leaked, leading to allegations that Navin Ramgoolam had previously instigated illegal phone-tapping of political adversaries. This involved the Israeli firm Verint and the use of sophisticated surveillance equipment like the IMSI-Catcher.

What role did the firm Verint play in Mauritius's phone-tapping capabilities under Ramgoolam's government?

Under Ramgoolam's government, the firm Verint was engaged to enhance the phone-tapping capabilities of the Mauritian police intelligence unit. This included the purchase of equipment like the IMSI-Catcher and training for intelligence officers, indicating a significant investment in surveillance technology during his tenure.

From which universities has Navin Ramgoolam received honorary doctorates?

Navin Ramgoolam has been awarded honorary doctorates from several universities, including the University of Mauritius, Aligarh Muslim University and Jawaharlal Nehru University in India, and Staffordshire University in the United Kingdom.

When did Navin Ramgoolam marry Veena Brizmohun?

Navin Ramgoolam married Veena Brizmohun on July 8, 1979. Veena was studying social sciences at the University of London at the time of their marriage.

What were the dates of Navin Ramgoolam's first term as Prime Minister of Mauritius?

Navin Ramgoolam's first term as Prime Minister of Mauritius was from December 27, 1995, to September 16, 2000.

What were the dates of Navin Ramgoolam's second term as Prime Minister of Mauritius?

Navin Ramgoolam's second term as Prime Minister of Mauritius spanned from July 5, 2005, to December 13, 2014.

When did Navin Ramgoolam most recently assume office as Prime Minister of Mauritius?

Navin Ramgoolam most recently assumed office as Prime Minister of Mauritius on November 12, 2024.

Who succeeded Navin Ramgoolam as Prime Minister after his first term ended in 2000?

Anerood Jugnauth succeeded Navin Ramgoolam as Prime Minister after his first term concluded in 2000.

Who succeeded Navin Ramgoolam as Prime Minister after his second term ended in 2014?

Anerood Jugnauth succeeded Navin Ramgoolam as Prime Minister after his second term concluded in 2014.

Who was the Prime Minister of Mauritius immediately before Ramgoolam's current term began in 2024?

Pravind Jugnauth served as the Prime Minister of Mauritius immediately before Navin Ramgoolam began his current term in November 2024.

Navin Ramgoolam Wiki: Navin Ramgoolam: Architect of Modern Mauritius

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Biographical Sketch

Early Life and Lineage

Navinchandra Ramgoolam was born on 14 July 1947, in Port Louis, Mauritius. He is the son of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, the revered first Prime Minister of Mauritius and a key figure in the nation's independence. His ancestry traces back to Harigaon, Bihar, India, belonging to the Koeri (Kushwaha) community. This familial legacy deeply influenced his path into public service.

Education and Professional Foundation

Ramgoolam received his early education at Royal College Curepipe. He pursued medical studies in Ireland from 1968 to 1975, earning qualifications from the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. He later engaged in legal studies at the London School of Economics and Political Science, returning to Mauritius to practice medicine before fully immersing himself in politics.

Political Initiation

Following his father's passing in 1985, Ramgoolam was urged by political leaders Satcam Boolell and Paul Bérenger to assume leadership of the Labour Party. This pivotal moment marked his transition from medicine to a dedicated political career, aiming to challenge the existing political establishment and forge new alliances.

Political Trajectory

Ascendancy and First Premiership (1995-2000)

In 1995, Ramgoolam led the Labour Party in alliance with the Mauritian Militant Movement (MMM). This coalition achieved a historic victory, winning all 60 directly elected seats. Ramgoolam became Prime Minister, with Bérenger as his deputy. However, the coalition fractured in 1997, leading to Bérenger's opposition role and Ramgoolam governing as a single-party leader.

Second Premiership (2005-2014)

After a setback in the 2000 elections, Ramgoolam led the Alliance Sociale to a decisive victory in the 2005 general elections, securing his second term as Prime Minister. His coalition maintained power through the 2010 elections, though internal political dynamics and scandals marked this period. The alliance eventually lost the 2014 elections, and Ramgoolam himself lost his parliamentary seat, prompting his resignation.

Subsequent Campaigns and Return (2019-Present)

Ramgoolam continued to lead the Labour Party, forming alliances for the 2019 and 2024 general elections. Despite failing to secure a seat in 2019, he led the "Alliance du Changement" coalition to a landslide 60-0 victory in the 2024 elections. Following Pravind Jugnauth's resignation, Ramgoolam was sworn in for his third term as Prime Minister in November 2024.

Political Stances

Chagos Archipelago Stance

In 2024, Ramgoolam expressed strong criticism of the agreement negotiated by the previous government regarding the Chagos Archipelago's return to Mauritian control, deeming it a "sellout." Upon resuming office, he initiated an independent review of this agreement, signaling a potential shift in Mauritius's approach to the dispute.

Controversies and Allegations

Legal and Ethical Concerns

Ramgoolam's career has been accompanied by several controversies and allegations:

1978 UK Arrest: Charged with driving under the influence in London.
1984 Assault Allegation: Accused of assaulting his father, then-Prime Minister Seewoosagur Ramgoolam.
1997 Albion Gate Party: Allegations of inappropriate conduct at a party involving underage individuals and heavy drinking, leading to media scrutiny and a ban on the song "Macarena."
2009 Varma Tax Evasion: Accusations of conflict of interest and tax evasion against an associate, Yatin Varma, with Ramgoolam reportedly not initiating an investigation.
Travel Companion Jessica Weber: Questions raised about the creation of a specific role and extensive travel expenses for Weber during his tenure.
2010 Verbal Abuse: Publicly used derogatory language towards a female party member during a rally.
2010 Bungalow Purchase: Allegations of using funds from a pension scheme (Super Cash Back Gold) for a personal property purchase, with the loan remaining unrepaid.
2014 Nandanee Soornack: Allegations involving his partner, Nandanee Soornack, fleeing the country amidst investigations into offshore accounts and preferential treatment in government contracts.
2014 London Rolls-Royce: Spotted with a distinctive Rolls-Royce (RR10RAM) and a suitcase at a bank, sparking speculation.
2015 Arrest: Arrested on charges including conspiracy and money laundering related to the "Affaire Roches-Noires," involving safes, foreign currency, and credit cards found at his residence. Charges were later dropped.
2024 Phone Tapping Scandal: Accusations resurfaced regarding his alleged involvement in initiating phone tapping operations using Israeli firm Verint during his previous premierships.

Accolades and Honors

National Recognition

Ramgoolam has been honored with the Grand Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (GCSK) in 2008, the highest national honor in Mauritius. He also holds honorary fellowships and doctorates from various institutions, including the London School of Economics and Political Science and Aligarh Muslim University.

International Distinctions

Internationally, he has been recognized with significant honors such as the Grand Officer of the Order of Legion of Honour from France (2006) and the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award from India (2008). His contributions have also been acknowledged through honorary doctorates from Jawaharlal Nehru University and Padmashree Dr D. Y. Patil University in India, among others.

Personal Life

Marriage and Family

Navin Ramgoolam married Veena Brizmohun in 1979. They have one child, Xara Keiron Chandra Soornack, born in 2009. His parents were Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam and Sushil Ramjoorawon.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Navin Ramgoolam" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about navin_ramgoolam while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

development dimensions international

opengov

leech

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Navin Ramgoolam Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional political or legal advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Navin Ramgoolam

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Biographical Sketch 👤

👶 Early Life and Lineage

🎓 Education and Professional Foundation

🏛️ Political Initiation

Political Trajectory 📈

🗳️ Ascendancy and First Premiership (1995-2000)

🔄 Second Premiership (2005-2014)

⏳ Subsequent Campaigns and Return (2019-Present)

Political Stances ⚖️

🇬🇧 Chagos Archipelago Stance

Controversies and Allegations ⚖️

🚨 Legal and Ethical Concerns

Accolades and Honors ⭐

🏅 National Recognition

🌍 International Distinctions

Personal Life ❤️

💍 Marriage and Family

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Biographical Sketch

Early Life and Lineage

Education and Professional Foundation

Political Initiation

Political Trajectory

Ascendancy and First Premiership (1995-2000)

Second Premiership (2005-2014)

Subsequent Campaigns and Return (2019-Present)

Political Stances

Chagos Archipelago Stance

Controversies and Allegations

Legal and Ethical Concerns

Accolades and Honors

National Recognition

International Distinctions

Personal Life

Marriage and Family

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice