Bancoult Demands Justice for Chagossians

Olivier Bancoult, the leader of the Chagos Refugees Group (GRC), has reiterated the community’s ongoing struggle for the right to return to Diego Garcia and called for compensation for the uprooted Chagossians. During a general assembly held on Sunday, October 13, the Chagossians present approved an agreement between the British and Mauritian governments but emphasized their determination to continue fighting for their rights.

Bancoult announced that a significant group of Chagossians has expressed their support for moving forward with the agreement between the British and Mauritian governments.

“They have given their approval, but they remain committed to the fight regarding Diego Garcia,” he stated.

He pointed out the desire of the Chagossians to return to their homeland, just like the residents of Peros Banhos and the Salomon Islands, who also seek to reclaim their place in the Chagos archipelago.

According to Bancoult, the financial fund proposed by the British government must be managed by the Mauritian government, despite any disagreement from British authorities.

He emphasized the necessity of addressing historical injustices by distributing reparations to Chagossians who were uprooted from their homes, including those who have passed away since their displacement.

“We had the opportunity to speak with the Prime Minister about the financial aspects of the reparations that should be provided to the Chagossians, including those who have died since their removal,” he explained.

Bancoult underlined that the lease which Mauritius is set to receive must include provisions for the Chagossians, whether in the form of lifetime pensions or other kinds of compensation.

He expressed concern for the aging community, stating, “Every day, people are dying. They would appreciate seeing some benefits before it is too late.”

During the assembly, it was decided that a letter would be submitted to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the British High Commission in Mauritius on Monday.

The letter will communicate the collective decision of the Chagossians and insist on their inclusion in future discussions pertinent to their situation.

Respect for Chagossians

Bancoult also criticized those outside of Mauritius who comment on the agreement between the UK and Mauritius, suggesting their efforts are misplaced.

He expressed disappointment with some Chagossians who no longer consider themselves Mauritian and have seemingly forgotten their roots.

He added that the real issue at hand is the respect for Chagossians and their heritage.

While he respects individuals who choose to relocate to the UK, just as many Mauritians move abroad, he stressed, “We must respect their choice as they know their plan for the future.

However, we cannot expect everyone to desire to move to the UK.”

He noted that many wish to return to their ancestral homeland in the Chagos archipelago, stating, “No one can oppose that.”

Bancoult expressed his concerns regarding the stance taken by the third and fourth-generation Chagossians affiliated with groups like Chagossian Voices and BIOT Citizens, who claim that the GRC cannot represent the Chagossian community.

Nevertheless, the general assembly on October 13 reaffirmed Bancoult’s role as the leader of the Chagossian community, leading him to assert, “I am not stepping down as a voice for my people.”

Source: Defi Media