This chapter mainly focuses on good governance in and around Mauritius. The author (Krishna Athal 2015, Ramrajya: An enigmatic leader’s rise to power, Chapter 7: Good Governance, YouGen Publishers, Port Louis, Mauritius, p. 201) starts with giving his views on good governance and question’s whether good governance is a broken dream? He ignites critical thinking not only to the Mauritian citizen but to the global citizen as well.  I find the analysis imperative as many governments in Afrika are YET to understand the importance of good governance.

Down to the basics of good governance

• The author (Krishna Athal 2015, Ramrajya: An enigmatic leader’s rise to power, Chapter 7: Good Governance, YouGen Publishers, Port Louis, Mauritius, p. 203) explains good governance to his readers whilst reiterating how there isn’t necessarily an ideal definition on good governance. Good governance is basically a terminology first used by the West to Afrika as a control mechanism. The reason why I say this is because Afrika first heard the term “Corruption” over ten years ago. What does that say? International bodies want to prescribe how Afrika should be run. Krishna Athal made a lot of references to international bodies and their definition to and of “Good Governance” making it categorically clear that Afrika is yet to define “Good Governance”.
• “Perhaps this is why the concept of good governance is deemed controversial because the term was simply needed and created to combat political issues. More so in terms of Afrika as a continent facing high corruption levels, mismanagement and authoritarian regime abuse. It was clearly identified that telling country’s their governance policies and practices were not good enough was too harsh a criticism, so a term was given to the problem and everyone jumped on board to make seem that it was a collective improvement strategy rather than targeted move to stop the abuse happening in Afrikan countries.” (Krishna Athal 2015, Ramrajya: An enigmatic leader’s rise to power, Chapter 7: Good Governance, YouGen Publishers, Port Louis, Mauritius, p.208) confirms yet again how supervision is given to Afrika to ensure good governance and it’s practices to the people of this great continent, Afrika.

An Ideal Mauritanian Model

• Krishna Athal 2015, Ramrajya: An enigmatic leader’s rise to power, Chapter 7: Good Governance, YouGen Publishers, Port Louis, Mauritius, p. 211 candidly expresses his ideal Mauritius. He articulates in thoughts and desires for women’s participation in the political sphere as it is yet to gain impetus in this era and time, as worrisome and genuine as that sound, it is attainable. I completely agree that in order for good governance to take place and be effective, all parties need to be involved as women play a very crucial role in the development of any democracy.
• In p 212, Krishna Athal puts emphasis on execution, education, culture and religion. These are indeed key factors that are barriers towards good governance. When dealing with a diverse nation as Mauritius, all factors ought to be considered to ensure balance, stability and peace.
• The media needs to take their place and play their role towards a good governed country. Government officials need not to dictate what is to be written and printed, as this can easily lead to censorship and dictatorship.
• Women and youth need to be introduced to entrepreneurial backgrounds (as early as 6 years) to ensure that the Ideal Mauritian model doesn’t remain on paper but that is carried out via implementation. Otherwise, this will remain a dream and dreams ought to be chased and executed before they become a mirage.

Anticipating the coming crisis

• “Good governance in Mauritius will only successfully be fulfilled to its full capacity when the policies set about by the government cater for the Mauritanian people as a whole. “ – (Krishna Athal 2015, Ramrajya: An enigmatic leader’s rise to power, Chapter 7: Good Governance, YouGen Publishers, Port Louis, Mauritius, p.222) this statement gives me the impression that there is some level of tribalism in Mauritius. A people that see the need to first say their tribe then nation needs a serious awakening call as true and genuine governance can only be achieved as a collective. The author in this regards cannot stress enough on the importance of and or promotion of national identity and collectiveness.

The future of Mauritanian political leadership

• As a young Afrikan leader who has had political exposure, I fully fathom Krishna Athal disappointment in the future of Mauritius Political Leadership as this is also an issue globally. However, the author could have focused more on mechanisms on how to ensure a possible future in the political arena of the Republic of Mauritius. Also, how can the old and young integrate for the development and growth of their country? Shouldn’t we look at mentorship programs and succession plans to avoid all the greed and corruption linked to political leaderships?

Better leaders and governance for a better tomorrow

• In this subsection, I agree with the author that good governance is an ideal, however, good governance is possible, and it is within reach. More focus needs to be put on mechanisms certifying the realization of good governance. What policies are in place to safeguard good governance? What is the role of youth and women in good governance in Mauritius?

In conclusion, I would like to thank Krishna Athal for the opportunity to critically review Chapter 7 on Good Governance, (Krishna Athal 2015, Ramrajya: An enigmatic leader’s rise to power, YouGen Publishers, Port Louis, Mauritius). There are a few things I would have loved to read on good governance, I.E. How does good governance influence change? How does good governance strengthen the economy of the country? What are the advantages of good governance? Overall, it was interesting to learn about good governance from a Mauritian perspective. The chapter is ground breaking in terms of transformational leaders. It was indeed a good read! Congratulations  on this well-articulated piece and well done! There is indeed light at the end of the tunnel for Afrika and her children. More Power to the Krishna Athal and all the youth all over the world. We are torch bearers and heirs to the world’s leadership.