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Mauritius blocks access to social media ahead of elections

4 Nov, 2024

What happened

Last week, the government of Mauritius ordered the shutting down of access to social media platforms ahead of the election in early November and in the aftermath of a wiretapping scandal.

Initially, the government had ordered that access to social media would be restricted between November 1 and 11 – a day after the election – as the country heads into a hotly contested election. However, access to the internet has since been restored after condemnation of the blackout.

The social media blockage follows the leaking of audio recordings of almost two dozen government officials that have been circulating on social media platforms. 

Mauritius’s communications regulator said the circulating recordings were illegal and, thus, ordered internet service providers to block access to social media platforms.

Following the publication of the audio clips, the government further argued that restricting access to social media was necessary to preserve national security and integrity.

 

MISA's position

 

Internet shutdowns and restrictions on access to social media are becoming increasingly common in southern Africa. These shutdowns infringe on basic human rights, such as freedom of expression and access to information.

 

In March 2024, the African Commission on Human Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) called on African nations to “refrain from ordering the interruption of telecommunications services, shutting down the internet, and/or disrupting access to any other digital communication platforms before, during or after the elections”.

ACHPR further called on telecommunications and internet service providers to inform users of potential disruptions and exercise due diligence to resolve any disruptions expeditiously.

MISA condemns the actions of the government of Mauritius and calls on the authorities to ensure uninterrupted access to the Internet and social media during and after the election period.

About MISA

The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) was founded in 1992. Its work focuses on promoting, and advocating for, the unhindered enjoyment of freedom of expression, access to information and a free, independent, diverse and pluralistic media.

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Those affected:
Citizens
Number affected:
Perpetrators:
The Government
Types of actors:
State
Location:
Mauritius