President Cassim Uteem, the current head of state, who is appointed by the House of Assembly is expected to have his term extended by one year to accommodate the arrangement. Some 81 percent of the 790,000 plus registered voters cast ballots for more than 40 parties and independent candidates in 20 constituencies. Two seats on offshore Rodrigues Island were taken by local parties who usually join the ruling coalition in the House of Assembly and get a cabinet post. They were partners twice before in forming governments but these alliances did not hold and invariably Berenger returned to opposition. Indeed, the big question today aside from the blaring chaotic celebrations across the island, is whether the alliance can stick long enough for Jugnauth to establish himself, amend the constitution to strengthen the presidency and take that unelected ceremonial office within three years.
Analysts are adamant that today's winning alliance is the last chance for both men.
Berenger has always aspired to be head of government but his penchant for breaking away from his political partners means the high office has always eluded him. There were no burning issues. Both alliances are ideologically in the centre. The economy is in good shape, unemployment and inflation low and promises to raise GDP and make government more effective were made equally by both sides. The voters, however, seemed in a mood to punish Ramgoolam for the mild outbreak of corruption and his snap election.