Arvin Boolell :- In the vibrant tapestry of Mauritian politics, one name that resonates with resilience, vision, and leadership is Dr. Arvin Boolell. Born into an Arya Samajist Indo-Mauritian family in Port Louis on May 26, 1953, Dr. Boolell’s journey is not just a political saga but a narrative of commitment, service, and transformation.
Arvin Boolell’s Early Life
Hailing from the lineage of his illustrious father, Sir Satcam Boolell, a former leader of the Labour Party and Deputy Prime Minister, Dr. Arvin Boolell grew up immersed in the rich political legacy of his family. His younger brother, Satyajit Boolell, and cousin, Satish Boolell, further contribute to this familial political tapestry.
Educated at St Mary’s College in Rose Hill, Dr. Boolell embarked on a journey to England and Wales to study medicine. His academic pursuits didn’t stop there, as he later earned an LLM from the National University of Ireland, adding legal expertise to his medical background.
Political Odyssey
Dr. Boolell’s political voyage commenced in 1987 when he was elected to the Legislative Assembly in Constituency No. 11, Vieux Grand Port and Rose Belle. His political acumen and dedication to public service manifested through consecutive victories in general elections until 2014.
From 2005 to 2008, Dr. Arvin Boolell donned the mantle of the Minister of Agriculture, later known as the Minister of Agro-Industry. During this tenure, he engaged in crucial negotiations with the European Union on economic matters. Following a cabinet reshuffle in 2008, he assumed the role of Minister of Foreign Affairs, a position he held until 2014.
Despite the challenges, Dr. Arvin Boolell’s resilience was evident in his role as the Opposition Whip from 2000 to 2005 and his continued dedication to public service.
Leadership and Recognition
In the political landscape of Mauritius, Dr. Boolell’s leadership shone brightly. In 2011, he was honoured with the title of Grand Officer of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (G.O.S.K.), a testament to his contributions to the nation.
Dr. Boolell’s commitment to transparency within political parties became a guiding principle. He emphasized the need for parties to revisit their constitutions, ensuring implementation and fostering a spirit of openness.
Empowering Women
One of Dr. Boolell’s significant contributions lies in his advocacy for gender equality. In 2018, he won a by-election, and his association with Gender Links, an organization working in Grand Port, solidified his commitment to empowering women.
At a political dialogue organized by Gender Links, Dr. Boolell affirmed his party’s commitment to fielding one-third of women candidates in the next general election. However, he acknowledged that commitment alone is not enough; a societal shift is essential to eliminate prejudice and empower women at the grassroots level.
Dr. Arvin Boolell stressed the need for ongoing forums and new ideas to address the stigmatization of women in politics. His pride in his party’s role in enacting legislation, such as the Sex Discrimination Act and the Elimination from Domestic Violence Act, demonstrates his dedication to advancing women’s rights.
Child Protection and Future Challenges
Addressing critical issues, Dr. Arvin Boolell expressed concern about child marriage in Mauritius. He asserted that girls should enjoy their childhood and education, and not be burdened with marital responsibilities. Dr. Boolell anticipates the finalization of the Child Protection Act, including provisions against child marriage.
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