Wakashio: Legal Action Pending for Okiyo Maritime Corporation Over 6,300 Claims

The Ministry of Agro-Industry is preparing a formal notice against Okiyo Maritime Corporation to seek damages following the hydrocarbon pollution caused by the MV Wakashio, Parliament heard on Tuesday, 17 March.

The announcement was made by Arvin Boolell on 17 March in response to queries from MP Tony Apollon regarding compensation for those affected by the maritime disaster.

Boolell confirmed that the Ministry is currently working in consultation with the Attorney General’s Office to finalize the legal proceedings.

Stalled Compensation and Legal Deadlock

The scale of the financial impact remains significant, with 6,300 claims registered to date, totaling MUR 2.3 billion. However, despite the high volume of claims, only MUR 200 million has been paid out so far.

Payments to victims have been suspended since April 2022. This freeze followed a legal move by the ship’s insurer intended to cap the total amount of compensation available.

The Road to the Privy Council

In a fresh development, the dispute has now reached the Privy Council. An audience for the case is not expected until mid-2027, leaving thousands of claimants in a continued state of uncertainty.

Addressing the delay, Boolell reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the victims, stating that the state will ensure all due indemnities are eventually settled.

Source: Defi Media