Mauritius Elects First Female President

There is no nobler cause than the empowerment of women, one of the most oppressed groups in all of human history.

So as we take steps collectively across the globe towards this goal, every time some news like this comes out its one worth celebrating.

Mauritius has elected their first female president into office in a vote carried out by the nation’s parliament. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, a 56 year old scientist, was almost universally tipped for the role and gained the official approval on Thursday.

She has been described as an apolitical candidate, who receives support from both parties and thus would be uniquely suited to the role. She replaces former president Kailash Purryag,who resigned from the post he has held since 2012.

Ameenah’s role would be largely ceremonial, however, as most executive powers resides with the Prime Minister in Mauritius’ parliamentary system.

It’s still a huge step, and adds Mauritius to the very minuscule list of nations who have elected women to the highest office of the land.