AFP,PORT LOUIS, Mauritius: Prominent scientist Ameenah Gurib-Fakim was yesterday approved by the parliament of Mauritius as the Indian Ocean island nation’s new president, making her the first woman to hold the ceremonial position.
Parliament speaker Maya Hanoomanjee, who is also the first woman to hold that post, said the overwhelming approval of Gurib-Fakim’s designation was an historic day for the country. The opposition also supported her appointment, making the vote a mere formality.
I have always believed in the equality of men and women, Prime Minister Sir Anerood Jugnauth told reporters.
Her inauguration ceremony will take place on Friday, officials said.
Gurib-Fakim, 56, becomes the first female president of the island, which gained independence from Britain in 1968 and replaced Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state in 1992.