Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam said Wednesday night that he preferred to give up the overhaul of electoral system recommended by the United Nations, saying it will divide the population.

Navin Ramgoolam said this at the national television in his traditional New Year message and presentation of wishes to the people.

"Electoral reform must unite, not divide. If not there will be no reform," the prime minister said. "Electoral reform affects everyone, not only the politicians. This is a very complex topic that deserves a thorough discussion before we can agree on the type of reform that will better serve the interests of a modern society. Together, and with a good reform, we can write a new chapter in the history of our country."

Navin Ramgoolam previously pointed out that 46 years after the independence of the country, it is time to think in terms of people in Mauritius and not in terms of international community.

Mauritius is required to make changes to its electoral system in accordance with UN recommendations after some Mauritians complained to the United Nations Commission on Human Rights (UNCHR) .

The Resistance and Alternative group protested to the UN on the country's Best Loser System which provides a representation on an ethnic basis in the Mauritian Parliament. In a judgment released on Aug. 31, 2012, the UNHCR asked the Mauritian government to make changes to the system.

The Prime Minister also lauded the achievements of his government during the previous year. He listed the opening of the new terminal at the Plaisance Airport and several roads to decongest the country. Endi

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