Unions Call for Political Appointees’ Departure in Public Institutions

Unions representing public sector employees are intensifying pressure on the government to prompt political appointees to resign from their positions in state institutions. Narendranath Gopee, a prominent union leader, has urged Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam to take decisive action if these appointees refuse to leave voluntarily.

Gopee’s call to action came following the Prime Minister’s earlier statement that political appointees in ministries, parastatal organizations, and other governmental institutions “should leave of their own accord.”

Gopee supported the Prime Minister’s stance, saying, “I believe they need to resign.

The previous administration made several questionable appointments, such as Harvesh Seegolam, the former Governor of the Bank of Mauritius.

I question whether he possessed the necessary qualifications for such a significant role.”

He also pointed to Navin Beekharry, the CEO of the Financial Crimes Commission, emphasizing that he should step down as well.

“Many of these appointees are unaware of the true value of our institutions, which are meant to function independently.

Some have been compromised by individuals serving only the interests of the MSM party.

While some have already left their posts, many haven’t yet,” Gopee noted.

He insisted that these individuals must vacate their positions to allow these institutions to operate without political interference.

Gopee further criticized Kemraz Mohee, the CEO of State Informatics Ltd, stating that his leadership has severely harmed the company.

He called for an inquiry into the organization’s management, pointing out that the firm is currently operating at only 50% capacity due to mismanagement, causing significant employee turnover.

“The CEO has no place leading this institution,” he asserted.

The union leader also referenced the CEO of SME Mauritius, Ravin Rampersad, highlighting that under his leadership, small and medium-sized enterprises have failed to thrive and have expressed grievances over a lack of government support.

Gopee continued, “This also applies to the Secretary for Public Service, who should resign as well, as the quality of service has drastically declined since his appointment.”

In addition, he mentioned the need for the two Deputy Governors of the Bank of Mauritius to resign, as well as Sudhamo Lall, the Director General of the Mauritius Revenue Authority, whom he accused of working against the public interest in favor of the MSM party.

Gopee suggested that the Prime Minister is already aware of another troubling case and urged that sanctions should be imposed on the Chief Fire Officer, citing concerns over his performance.

Lastly, he raised concerns about Caroline Arekion, the director of Early Childhood services, referring to her as another political appointee who should consider stepping down.

Gopee concluded his remarks by emphasizing the need for dynamic individuals to lead these institutions, asserting that political affiliations should not exempt anyone from accountability.

He called on the Prime Minister to take necessary actions for the sake of public interest, stating:

“These individuals must go for the public good, as the new government needs a fresh start.”

Radhakrishna Sadien, president of the State and Other Employees Union (SOEF), supported Gopee’s comments by referring to Section 113 of the Constitution, stating that any new government has the authority to remove individuals from positions within state organizations.

“If there are political appointees who campaigned on the ground or helped rally support during elections, they must clear their positions,” Sadien concluded.

Source: Le Mauricien