Governance Crisis at MSAW as 3 Directors Resign over Alleged Political Interference

A wave of high-level resignations has hit the Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW), prompting the Minister of Agro-Industry to call for “collective responsibility” amid allegations of governance failures and political interference.

Speaking on Monday, 4 May, at the launch of Ocean Week at the Caudan Arts Centre, Minister Arvin Boolell addressed the exodus, which saw Board Chairperson Anuja Ghoorah-Ramkissoon and two other directors step down last week.

Governance Breakdown

The crisis reached a tipping point on Thursday, 30 April, when Mrs Ghoorah-Ramkissoon announced her departure.

Her exit was followed immediately by two other board members, including Dr P. Gowreesunkur, the ministry’s own representative.

The former Chairperson cited serious “dysfunctions in governance” as the primary reason for her withdrawal. She alleged that:

• Board directives were consistently ignored by management.
• The organisation suffered from a distinct lack of financial transparency.
• A Junior Minister had engaged in “direct political intervention” regarding day-to-day operations.

Minister Minimises Conflict

Minister Boolell, however, sought to downplay the severity of the departures, categorising the situation as an “internal administrative problem” involving procedural disputes.

He suggested the matter should have been resolved privately rather than in the public eye.

“This is an internal administrative conflict linked to the application of procedures,” Mr Boolell stated, adding that his ministry, alongside Junior Minister Fabrice David, is working to resolve the difficulties while maintaining the government’s commitment to empowering young professionals.

Stray Animal Crisis

Beyond the boardroom turmoil, the Minister turned his attention to the “distressing” issue of stray dog proliferation across the island.

While acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Mr Boolell insisted that the authorities cannot be held solely responsible.

He argued that the burden must be shared by the public, particularly pet owners.

“Blaming others is the easy way out,” the Minister remarked. “It is now up to everyone to act with civic-mindedness and responsibility to meet the expectations of society.”

The Minister concluded by stressing that addressing animal welfare requires a national shift in attitude, moving away from finger-pointing toward a unified civic response.

Source: Le Mauricien