BHAWNA ATMARAM
I am a citizen of the Republic of Mauritius. I love my country. I care about my country. I worry about my country’s wellbeing. And this is why I am marching today.
I am going to the peaceful march today in Port Louis. No, I am not a member of any political parties. I am not representing any individual’s vested interests. I am not driven by ethnic considerations. I am not naive. I am not going to further anyone’s personal agenda. I am patriotic. And this is why I am marching today.
The only colours I subscribe to are the four colours of our national flag. I stand for the principles of democracy. I believe in freedom of expression. I respect others’ opinions, even if they do not agree with the march. I do not want censorship to take over. And this is why I am marching today.
I am against violence. I want peace to prevail. I pray that accountability and transparency define our institutions. Each step I take echoes the feeling of belonging with my fellow countrymen and countrywomen. And this is why I am marching today.
I want my voice to be heard though I will be marching silently. I will be reflecting on my country’s future. It is a time to put everything in perspective. A time to let go of one’s ego. To claim that we should be treated equally in this country. There are no inferiors, no superiors. And this is why I am marching today.
Not everyone can be present though their thoughts are with us. I will be marching for my country, for those who cannot be physically present. It is a time to ponder on consolidating national unity. We need to stand up for our country, as one. And this is why I am marching today.