Much has been said on the poverty issue lately. Obviously, it is a fundamental matter that should not be uncovered only in the context of the International Day against Poverty. Last week, all political parties and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) raised their voices to make themselves heard. This is important because such a day must help recall the importance of a fight that should concern all of us.

Roukaya Kasenally is right when she says, ?Political will and commitment are very important as they ensure that one moves away from pure rhetoric to actual action. Mauritius has for too long suffered from this syndrome, which is unfortunately locking us into a status quo.? Obviously enough, one of the reasons that has prevented the eradication of poverty over for the past few years must be the fact that each government seems to take a vicious pleasure in ?undoing? every action of its predecessor.

During his ?overflow period? ? which appears to become recurrent ? the minister of Finance, Rama Sithanen, made it clear that, with some support, he would have little difficulty in eradicating poverty. It is worth noticing that he did not express whom he needed support from but we can guess he was talking about his own colleagues in government. Targeting appears as an?obvious? solution to the minister of Finance to fight poverty. The same targeting that his government just gave up when it came to power two years ago for old-age pensioners. And the same targeting it did not apply when he granted free transport to all students and pensioners. But we could bet that, even if the government gave up these popular measures during this mandate, the present opposition could well restore them for popular reasons if it were to come back to power in 2010.

Local political parties are like that. Instead of having a clear policy, they just adapt to the mood of the country to win elections.

And then? Come what may!

But this kind of attitude cannot solve the gro-wing problems the country is facing. The question of poverty can have a disastrous impact on social life ? well, it may even have already started to be felt. Law and order is undeniably on the decline as the number of thefts and violence increase in our society. Although thieves should not use their daily difficulties as an excuse for committing crimes, it is a fact that the decreasing purchasing power may lead some to desperate actions.

This is where a clear communication becomes essential. If jobs are available, then the message must be clearly passed on to those who need them. Specific campaigns must be organised to make sure people are aware of the opportunities available to them.

In fact, possibilities are there and those ruling this country seem to know what to do to eliminate poverty and ensure a decent living to all citizens. There are three years to go before the next general elections. This is the right timing to take delicate decisions that could appear unpopular at first.

The government has to give people time to realise its decisions were profitable to the majority at the end of the day? Later will be too late!