Financial Crimes Commission labelled as a “Monster”

The proposed Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) in Mauritius has been labeled a “monster” targeting government opponents by a panel of lawyers who voiced their concerns during a radio program.

The FCC Bill was presented in the National Assembly for its first reading.

Except for one lawyer, Sunil Bheeroo, the other participants, including constitutional lawyer Parvez Dookhy, expressed fears about the creation of the FCC.

They argued that the new commission, headed by a person appointed by the Prime Minister, would consolidate the powers of various institutions and potentially repeat past mistakes in combating corruption.

The lawyers cited cases where government members were involved in corruption scandals and expressed concerns about the lack of judicial oversight and the potential erosion of the independence of institutions like the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

They believed that the appointment process and unchecked powers of the FCC would undermine democracy and create a perception that government members are immune from prosecution.

However, Bheeroo defended the FCC, stating that it would contribute to the fight against corruption and that regulations would ensure its effectiveness.

The lawyers’ arguments did not convince their peers, and the Bar Council planned to discuss the bill and share their views.

Source: Defi Media