The radio programme promoted and sold as « Le duel Sithanen-Bérenger » fizzled out. The so-called debate on the Budget was more of a soft conversation between old friends discussing over the counter while sipping a beer. The forecasts on the chances of Brazil and Argentina, in the Soccer World Cup 2006, was the bouquet.

Expectations were high. The more so as it was Bérenger?s first participation in a live radio programme. He had constantly declined invitations from any radio station during his Prime ministership. What a change ! Now, in his simple attire of a mere opposition backbencher, he very modestly drives his way to Labourdonnais street in Port-Louis. Hats off, sir !

But disillusion was as high. Bérenger set the tone and talked of Rama and not of Sithanen. In MMM?s coded language, calling a person by his forename means he is in the good books. From thereon, one could guess that crucial questions would be pushed under the carpet. The message has, no doubt, reached the targeted quarters. Sycophant?s choir, with Stentor Bhagwan as lead vocal, will soon be chanting glories to Sithanen. Let?s take a bet.

Many Mauritians wished Bérenger would have been their mouthpiece as there was no listener?s time last Saturday. But alas, he had other priorities and chose to dance cheek to cheek with Sithanen.

Bérenger?s Petit frère is no better. He calls for Sithanen?s resignation because the latter has been, pardon me, « déculotté » according to him. Learned Counsel Pravind Jugnauth would certainly tender the same piece of advice to a party leader, Prime minister designate who was administered a real « déculottée » by the electorate in a constituency down south.

Sithanen should have a close look at the disparities between what he preaches and the government?s practices. Let?s mention three from the long list.

Government is waging a battle against over expenditure, so says Sithanen. But has he convinced his colleagues to reduce their per diem and stop insisting for a stay at Crillon, Georges V, Savoy or Dorchester during their spree abroad ? One night in one of these palaces costs more than five times the monthly salary of a factory worker.

Now, he talks of scarcity of competence and invites expatriates and Mauritians of the Diaspora to come and settle in the country. How does he reconcile his statement with the « lev paké allé » policy, so vigorously implemented at the expense of efficient and respected professionals ?

In exchange for the sharp cuts in social welfare provisions, Sithanen promises an Empowerment Fund. That?s easy talk. Facts are different. Potential university students who knocked, in vain, at the doors of the Employees? Welfare Fund should tell the minister what was their fate. No landed property, no loan. Yes, Minister tertiary education goes hand in hand with wealth in our country.

All this, Mr Minister, is said neither tongue in cheek, nor cheek to cheek.

JED