Firm Linked To Former PM Wins Rs 12 Million Prison Fish Supply Contract

A supplier with close ties to the former administration has been awarded the largest share of a lucrative government contract to supply fish to Mauritian prisons, sparking questions over procurement impartiality.

Tripod Fish Ltd, owned by Basoodeo “Bassoo” Seetaram—a known associate of former Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth—secured the primary lot of the tender, valued at Rs 12,000,000.

The contract, officialised on 8 December, covers the delivery of frozen and salted fish to penal institutions for a 12-month period.

Rigorous Process

The Mauritius Prison Service has moved swiftly to defend the award, insisting the selection was made in “total transparency” and strictly followed the Public Procurement Act 2006.

Officials confirmed that Tripod Fish Ltd was the “lowest bidder” among the participants and met all technical criteria.

Prison Commissioner Dev Jokhoo dismissed allegations of political interference, stating that the decision was made by a collective procurement committee.

“Politics has absolutely nothing to do with this,” Mr Jokhoo told the press. “The company submitted the best offer. Everything was done according to the normal process.”

Contract Breakdown

The total tender (reference MPS/ONB/QN51/2025-2026) was divided between three providers to supply goods “as and when required”:

Historical Precedent

While the recurring nature of contracts awarded to Tripod Fish Ltd during the Jugnauth era has drawn scrutiny, the prison administration noted that the Vacoas-based firm is not a newcomer to the sector and has successfully fulfilled previous contracts.

Despite reports of dissatisfaction from an unsuccessful bidder, the Commissioner maintained that all necessary explanations have been provided to the relevant authorities. The contract is currently in effect.

Mr Seetaram has declined to comment on the award.

Source: Defi Media