It is equally difficult for ordinary citizens to speak out without bearing possible consequences, as Mauritius is a small island where people are familiar with each other. Government does not resort to physical threats or violence to subdue citizens. On the contrary, the State uses financial pressure to keep people in tow. People risk the possibility of suspension, losing their jobs, facing interdicts or having government contracts withdrawn if they step out of line. Furthermore, Mauritians do not have a culture of contesting the state. If confrontation takes place, it is usually in situations where there is no possibility of conflict. People speak out during talk shows on private radio stations and other forums where they are able to hide behind the cloak of anonymity. The State has skilfully used the main news bulletin of the day to reinforce its position of power. During the last election, there was careful editing and a great deal of manipulation of imagery to portray the Prime Minister in the best way possible. He was always portrayed in a positive light – kissing babies and children, attending religious festivals, praying and engaging in intellectual debate. His main rival – Paul Berenger – on the other hand, was always shown in the worst possible light, saying innocuous things at the same event, or being abusive. The ruling party also uses state television or radio to start discussions around certain issues and steers people to think in a certain way. If the State wants to effectively communicate with the citizenry it will broadcast its message on the 7:30pm news on television, as 70 percent of Mauritians tune in to the main news bulletin of the day. AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MAURITIUS 2010 7