[Opinion] The Case for Using Kreol in Mauritius Parliament

As a nation that prides itself on its cultural diversity, Mauritius faces a critical linguistic issue that has long been overlooked—the inclusion of Kreol (Mauritian Creole) in the Parliament. While English and French have dominated the country’s official discourse since colonial times, Kreol remains the most widely spoken language, the everyday language of the majority of Mauritians. It’s time for the country to reconsider its linguistic policies and make Kreol an official language in the parliamentary process, reflecting the reality of a multilingual society and reinforcing national identity.

Historically, the dominance of English and French in parliamentary debates has alienated a large portion of the population. Despite the fact that Kreol is the first or second language for most Mauritians, the political and legal systems have excluded it from formal use. This language barrier creates a disconnect between the people and their representatives, as many Mauritians are not fully fluent in English or French. The consequence is a sense of disempowerment and disenfranchisement among Kreol speakers, who feel that their voices aren’t adequately represented or understood in the political sphere.

The inclusion of Kreol in Parliament would be a significant step toward a more inclusive, accessible, and transparent political system. By using Kreol, lawmakers would be able to communicate directly with the population in a language they understand, ensuring that all citizens have access to political discourse, not just those proficient in English or French. This could lead to more informed citizens, as they would no longer be excluded from discussions that shape their lives.

Moreover, the use of Kreol in the Parliament would also be an affirmation of the country’s unique cultural identity. Kreol is not just a language; it is a symbol of Mauritius’ history, its diversity, and its journey toward independence. Recognizing Kreol in the political realm would be a powerful statement of cultural pride, signaling that Mauritius is finally embracing its indigenous language as part of the nation’s identity, not relegating it to the margins. It’s time to break free from the lingering colonial legacy that has kept Kreol in the shadows and make it an integral part of the country’s governance.

However, I do recognize that there are challenges in making Kreol an official language of the Parliament. For one, Kreol lacks a standardized written form, which could create difficulties in drafting legal texts and official documents. But this is not an insurmountable obstacle. Language experts, linguists, and the Mauritian government could work together to develop a standardized written version of Kreol that is suitable for official use. If this is done thoughtfully, it would not only ensure that Kreol is represented in the legal and political systems but would also preserve the language for future generations.

In practice, we’ve already seen glimpses of this shift. In 2012, a parliamentary debate took place over the potential use of Kreol in parliamentary proceedings, signaling that change is in the air. Furthermore, some politicians have begun to incorporate Kreol into their speeches, reflecting the growing acceptance of the language in formal settings. These are small steps, but they demonstrate that Kreol has a place in the nation’s future, not just its past.

In conclusion, the use of Kreol in the Mauritius Parliament is a logical and necessary step toward a more inclusive, democratic, and culturally proud nation. It would bridge the communication gap between the government and the people, honor the linguistic reality of Mauritius, and affirm the country’s unique cultural heritage. The time for change is now—Kreol deserves a place in the heart of the political process.

Written By: Varsha