FCC Launches Preliminary Investigation into Deal Involving Obeegadoo Family

The Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) has initiated a preliminary investigation into the controversial “Mama-Piti” deal regarding a state land lease in Port-Louis granted to Primerose Obeegadoo, the mother of outgoing Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Lands, Steven Obeegadoo.

This decision was made following a complaint filed on September 20 at Reduit Triangle by Deonarain Lokee.

In correspondence to Lokee, the FCC’s Officer-in-Charge confirmed that the Commission had resolved to start a preliminary investigation regarding the allegations against Steven Obeegadoo.

He noted, “I am directed to inform you that after consideration, the Commission has decided to initiate a Preliminary Investigation,” referencing the complaint as “Complaint against Minister Steve Obeegadoo.”

Steven Obeegadoo is standing as a candidate in the upcoming general elections under the L’Alliance Lepep party for the Curepipe/Midlands constituency, running alongside former Private Parliamentary Secretary, Sandra Mayotte.

The FCC emphasized that the preliminary inquiry is intended to ascertain whether there are sufficient grounds to justify a formal investigation into the details of the deal.

During this initial phase, FCC officers will review the information provided in Lokee’s complaint.

As of now, there is no indication that Steven Obeegadoo will be summoned for questioning.

In his complaint, Lokee alleged that the Deputy Prime Minister played a significant role in facilitating the transfer of a 60-year lease to his 85-year-old mother.

He contended that this situation represents a conflict of interest, given that Steven Obeegadoo also held the position of Minister of Housing and Lands.

Lokee claimed that the Minister had meticulously orchestrated the situation to enable his mother to secure a change in lease for a 1,857 square meter plot located at the intersection of Mgr Leen and Le Sidaner Streets.

This change reportedly pertained to a project aimed at establishing a senior citizens’ home, with anticipated investments amounting to Rs 400 million.

Following media scrutiny, particularly from Le Mauricien, Primerose Obeegadoo has since withdrawn her request for a change of lease terms regarding the contested property.

Source: Le Mauricien