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Concerns Over Sovereignty Agreement for Chagos Islands

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Concerns Over Sovereignty Agreement for Chagos Islands
Image source: Le Mauricien

Linion Moris, a key figure in the discussion around Mauritius’s sovereignty over the Chagos Islands, has expressed concerns regarding recent developments. He accused Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth of exploiting the political situation to garner votes ahead of upcoming elections.

In a critical analysis, Rama Valayden highlighted a joint communiqué between Mauritius and the United Kingdom, referring to a “Political Agreement.”

Valayden challenged the validity of this arrangement, stating, “There is no true agreement between states. We need a legitimate state-to-state accord.”

Valayden raised questions about the reliability of the British government, reminding listeners, “How many times have the British returned on their word in the past?”

He expressed skepticism about the government’s rush to accept a proposal that seemingly excluded Diego Garcia from Mauritian control.

Criticizing the Prime Minister, Valayden remarked, “This is a betrayal of the Mauritian people, especially as the treaty won’t take effect until 2026. Why was this announcement made just before the elections?”

Valayden further pointed out that some members of the opposition in the UK are opposed to the prospective treaty.

He explained that any agreement would need to go through both the House of Lords and the House of Commons, where dissenting voices are already emerging.

Moris added that the British and Americans are keen on maintaining control over Diego Garcia due to its strategic military importance for monitoring the Indian Ocean and addressing regional security concerns.

At the local level, Moris accused Jugnauth of misleading the public by suggesting substantial financial benefits would come from the agreement.

Valayden stressed that there are still many unanswered questions regarding the treaty’s terms.

He questioned the Mauritian government’s plans for the repatriation of Chagossians, the construction of infrastructure, and the provision of essential services such as schools and hospitals.

“We haven’t even redefined our maritime zone,” he pointed out.

Nando Bodha, another vocal advocate for Chagossian rights, paid tribute to those who fought for justice, including the Chagossian community.

He described the uprooting of the Chagossians as a crime against humanity, recalling significant moments of resistance, including hunger strikes, torch marches in Pointe-aux-Sables, and protests outside the government’s offices.

Bodha expressed his disappointment with the joint communiqué, describing it as a form of betrayal.

He asserted, “While we are supposed to have gained sovereignty over the Chagos, it remains the British who will exercise that sovereignty concerning Diego Garcia.

Furthermore, the territory will be occupied by a third country, the United States, for 99 years. We face a fundamental issue with this Political Agreement.”

Source: Le Mauricien

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