The legal system of the Republic of Mauritius derives from both French
and English sources. During the French rule (1715 until 1810) the
Island's system was governed by the French Napoleonic Code which remained
in force under the British rule with subsequent amendments in civil
and criminal procedural laws and company law.
Mauritius, therefore, enjoys a hybrid legal system combining both
the civil and common law practices. Though being a Republic, Mauritius
still remains a member of the Commonwealth and the right of appeal
to the Privy Council is preserved.
The Republic of Mauritius, a presidential democracy modelled on
the British system of parliamentary democracy, guarantees the separation
of the legislative, executive and judicial powers.
The President is the head of state and Commander-in-Chief, while
the Prime Minister has full executive power and is the head of Government.
The sixty-two members of the National Assembly are elected every
five years by universal adult suffrage. All major political parties
are represented, reflecting the depth of democracy prevailing in
Mauritius. Parliament is the legislative authority in Mauritius.
|
