Mauritius became independent in 1968. Since then, it is one of the few countries in the developing world that has been able to sustain a vibrant multi-party democracy. The press is free, elections are held regularly and democratic institutions semm to well institutionalized. In order to understand the complex interworking of Mauritian politics, it is neccessary to know the main political parties, the key leaders and the current shape of alliances and coalitions.