Bank of Mauritius Abandons Controversial Disciplinary Committee Amidst Outrage

The Bank of Mauritius (BoM) has decided to abandon the Disciplinary Committee proceedings against Chidanand Rughoobar, former president of BoM employees union.

According to l’Express, Rughoobar received a terse letter reportedly stating, “This is to inform you that the Bank has decided NOT to proceed with the Disciplinary Committee.”

The case of the one who is described as having tirelessly worked for the well-being of BoM employees, has ignited a wave of discontent within the Central Bank, trade unions, and social media.

The accusations against Rughoobar, related to a minor delay in submitting his Option Form for new working conditions, were widely seen as flimsy and potentially hiding ulterior motives. 

The stark contrast in legal representation, with Rughoobar selling his modest car to afford a lawyer while the Bank had a Senior Counsel, has reportedly further fuelled public outrage.

The case has become a lightning rod for young Mauritians, who argue that the treatment Rughoobar faced in a regulatory institution, where political appointees earn lavish salaries, exemplifies the reasons why talented individuals are leaving the country in search of better prospects.

After multiple postponements, the Disciplinary Committee was scheduled for July 18, but increasing public scrutiny and allegations of persecution forced the Bank to cancel the entire process, the newspaper said.

The International Labour Organization has also reportedly been alerted by the Federation of Civil Service and Other Unions (FCSOU).

Source: l’Express