Bank of Mauritius’ Lavish expenses raise concerns at government level

The Bank of Mauritius (BoM) has reportedly acquired a Mercedes-Benz Maybach S580 model for use by the Governor, causing displeasure among some government members who consider this lavish expense of over Rs10 million may be perceived as a provocation during challenging economic times.

While no minister was willing to comment officially, l’Express reported that at least two or three expressed anger at the Central Bank’s latest “extravagant” acquisition.

BoM staff are also said to be raising questions about the recently acquired X5 vehicle, which was purchased in May 2023 and is practically new.

Members of government are equally upset at being associated with this purchase of expensive cars.

Earlier this year, two Mercedes CLS 350s were acquired for the First and Second Deputy Governors, resulting in a spend of over USD 1 million on cars in 2023 for Harvesh Seegolam, Madrayah Kona Yerukunondu, and Hemlata Sadhna Sewraj-Gopal.

Besides financial concerns, the car’s environmental impact has sparked discontent, given the country’s current scarcity of foreign currency and BoM’s focus on sustainability and climate change. 

L’Express said it has not been able to obtain an official statement from BoM yet, but the newspaper is eager to present the regulator’s perspective to “put these expenses in context as BoM’s results leave much to be desired.” 

Source: l’Express