85. The Mauritian Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, provides, inter-alia, in its Chapter II, entitled “Protection of fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual’’, for the following right under section 12 (1) Except with his own consent, no person shall be hindered in the enjoyment of his freedom of expression, that is to say, freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference, and freedom from interference with his correspondence. (2) Nothing contained in or done under the authority of any law shall be held to be inconsistent with or in contravention of this section to the extent that the law in question makes provision– a) in the interests of defence, public safety, public order, public morality or public health; b) for the purpose of protecting the reputations, rights and freedoms of other persons or the private lives of persons concerned in legal proceedings, preventing the disclosure of information received in confidence, maintaining the authority and independence of the courts, or regulating the technical administration or the technical operation of telephony, telegraphy, posts, wireless broadcasting, television, public exhibitions or public entertainments; or c) for the imposition of restrictions upon public officers, d) except so far as that provision or, as the case may be, the thing done under its authority is shown not to be reasonably justifiable in a democratic society. 86. Mauritius ranked 58th in the World Press Freedom Index. 87. There is at present more than 35 dailies/weeklies/fortnightlies/ monthlies, whilst the audio visual landscape consists of the national radio and television (the Mauritius Broadcasting Corporation) as well as private radio stations and web TV run by media houses. It is also important to point out that the press operates in an environment free from violence or coercion, as the profession is supported through a constitutional and legal framework of protection in Mauritius. 88. As mentioned in the Government Programme 2015-2019, the State of Mauritius is determined to protect the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution, including freedom of expression. The programme, which is being implemented, also pledges that journalists and media reporters in the exercise of their functions will no longer be arrested or jailed unless there is strong prima facie evidence of the commission of a criminal offence. In addition, there is no censorship of the press in Mauritius. Citizens of the Republic have very wide exposure to different viewpoints and indeed very wide access to high-speed internet. A new cable now connects Rodrigues to the rest of the world and this will enable Rodriguans to enjoy the same level of internet connectivity as mainland Mauritians. Agalega is also connected since 2018. 74