Like every year on the 1^st May, tens of thousands of Mauritians attend the political rallies held throughout the island.  Families go together before heading to the beaches at the end of the day in order to enjoy the last hours of this relaxing day.

1st May in Mauritius is a very lively day.  Indeed, here Labour Day is used as a political barometer as the various parties organise rallies across the island.  But far from ignoring these rallies, the Mauritians usually go with their families, dressed in the colours of their respective parties from head to toe.  The program for this bank holiday: the ever-traditional enthusiasm followed by sunset on the beach with family.  It's an opportunity for holidaymakers to discover another facet of the island.       

On the day, hundreds of buses are available for the public so that they can easily get to the different rallies.  Banners and flags flutter at every street corner.  Posters praising or flaying political leaders are stuck to the walls on the roadsides.  All of this is bathed in a joyful and folk-like mess.  In order to welcome all these people, several main roads in the towns and cities are closed to traffic.  One has to park and walk the rest of the way in the midst of men and women, happy to escape from their daily monotony for a few hours.           

A traditional enthusiasm

"It's surprising to see that people here openly disclose their political preferences.  It's also very pleasing to see that the atmosphere is very friendly," explained Jonathan, a French citizen currently on holiday on the island.  Like him, a few inquisitive holidaymakers have preferred to abandon the white sandy beaches in order to mingle with the population.  Accompanied by his wife, Bryan, a British man, talks about his drive to Rose Hill where two public meetings were held.  "It was very nice.  There was a group of youngsters who played the "djambé," we joined them to dance the Séga.  We gave it a try, in fact," he said laughingly.  An experience that the couple are not ready to forget.                

One goes with the family to these political rallies and the youngest ones disguise themselves as mascots with painted faces.  Even if the latter do not always understand what the adults are saying, they seem happy to join in this traditional enthusiasm that regulates the 1^st May.  And to feed and quench the thirst of these thousands of supporters, the hawkers have thought of everything: ice creams, pickled fruits, fruit juices and other delicacies for the kids. 

At the end of the various rallies, the Mauritians are used to meeting at the beach to spend an afternoon with their families.  Here, the political differences are put aside and everyone mixes together in good spirits.  "It's an opportunity to spend a nice time with the family.  We are enjoying it because we are going back to work tomorrow," said Raj, under the amused eye of her two years old daughter.