Rodrigues Leader Refuses to Resign Amidst Opposition’s Ultimatum

Rodrigues Chief Commissioner Franceau Grandcourt has vowed not to resign despite a collective threat from the opposition to quit their posts if he remained in office. The bold declaration came after a meeting with Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam and Deputy Prime Minister Paul Bérenger.

Grandcourt, emerging from the Treasury building, dismissed the calls for his resignation as a political strategy.

He insisted that he has a “clear mandate from the Rodriguan people.” His stance directly challenges the ultimatum issued by Francisco François, leader of the Organisation du Peuple de Rodrigues (OPR).

François had stated that opposition members in the Regional Assembly would resign collectively if Grandcourt did not step down following his meeting with the Prime Minister.

Grandcourt: “I’m Not Shaken”

Unfazed by the opposition’s threat, Grandcourt stated, “They can resign if they want, but I won’t. We have a mandate to respect.”

He added that this was not the first time the opposition had resigned, and that his legitimacy remains intact.

The Chief Commissioner also assured the Prime Minister that he still commands a “large majority” in the Regional Assembly. He sought to minimise any concerns about institutional instability.

Meeting Focused on Development

Grandcourt clarified that his discussion with the Prime Minister focused on the development of Rodrigues, not political tensions.

“The discussion with the Prime Minister was above all about projects and progress for the island,” he said.

He highlighted improvements in the quality of life in Rodrigues, particularly in sports and education.

Grandcourt said he would continue his work despite the protests and that the Rodriguan people, not his political adversaries, would ultimately judge his actions.

Invitation Extended

The article concludes by noting that Grandcourt has invited Prime Minister Ramgoolam to visit Rodrigues in October for the autonomy festival.

The political climate remains highly polarised, with the collective resignation threat hanging over the Regional Assembly.

Source: l’Express