Mauritius Bans Social Media Amid Wire-Tapping Controversy, Cites 'National Security'

Mauritius has blocked social media access after several leaked audio recordings surfaced online. On Friday, Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth's office warned that the recordings, shared widely on social platforms, could threaten national security. 

"Following the publication of certain audio tracks on social media, there is a real risk that the national security and integrity of our Republic and our international partners may have been compromised," said the office of Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth in a statement on Friday.

Since mid-October, around 20 private conversations involving politicians, police officers, lawyers, journalists, and civil society members have surfaced online, according to media watchdog Reporters Without Borders. These leaks, allegedly manipulated with artificial intelligence, have sparked widespread concern just days before the country’s upcoming general election on November 10.

Leaked Recordings Shared on TikTok 

The leaked audio recordings are being shared on TikTok by an account named "Missie Moustass" (Mr. Moustache), have spread rapidly across social media in Mauritius. Despite efforts to block this account, it has managed to reappear and continue releasing new recordings almost daily.

One of the most shocking recordings includes Mauritius’ police commissioner reportedly urging a forensic doctor to alter a report on a detainee’s death in the police custody.

Regulator Orders Social Media Block

In response to the escalating situation, Mauritius’s communications regulator instructed all internet service providers to suspend access to social media platforms until November 11, the day after the election. This step aims to limit the reach of the audio files as the country contends with the impact of what is being described as a “wiretapping scandal.”

Social media platforms, which play a central role in the island nation’s communications, will remain inaccessible until the vote concludes, a decision intended to prevent further circulation of the leaked conversations. The restriction comes as Mauritius prepares for a tightly contested election, in which Prime Minister Jugnauth aims to secure another five-year term and maintain his Militant Socialist Movement (MSM) party’s majority in parliament.

Government Claims Manipulation

Prime Minister Jugnauth and police authorities contend that the leaked conversations have been doctored with the use of AI tools, calling into question the recordings’ authenticity.

Rising Tensions Before Election Day

The wiretap scandal and subsequent social media shutdown have added tension to an already closely-watched election. For Jugnauth, retaining power could signify a vote of confidence in his leadership amid rising national security concerns. However, the timing of the leaks and the government’s handling of the situation may impact public opinion, creating new challenges for Mauritius’s political landscape.

What is Wire-Tapping Scandal

A wiretapping scandal involves the unauthorised surveillance of private conversations, typically through hidden recording devices or phone tapping. Such scandals often surface when sensitive or incriminating recordings are leaked to the public, revealing private or covert discussions among officials, politicians, or influential figures.