the Constitutional Review Commission that will be set up, he will state whether – (a) consideration will be…
(No. B/1190) Mr J. Edouard (Fourth Member for Rodrigues) asked the Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Home Affairs and External Communications, Minister of Finance, Minister for Rodrigues and Outer Islands whether, in regard to the Constitutional Review Commission that will be set up, he will state whether – (a) consideration will be given for the inclusion of a native of the Outer Islands, including Rodrigues, Chagos and Agalega to form part thereof, and (b) the specificities of the Outer Islands will be addressed by same.
Reply: The Constitutional Review Commission, now being finalised, stands as a solemn pledge by Government to revitalising democratic principles and strengthening governance to bolster public confidence in the autonomy of Government institutions. In view of the complex and sensitive nature of constitutional reforms, it is imperative that the exercise be led by experts who possess not only solid constitutional acumen but also a thorough understanding of the distinctive historical, social and institutional context of Mauritius. In regard to part (a) of the question, I wish to inform the House that the Chairperson has already been identified and the Attorney General shall meet him in the days to come to discuss and finalise the composition of the Commission. The House will appreciate that, at this stage, it would be premature to take any commitment on the membership of the Commission. As regards to part (b) of the question, I would like to reassure the House that in this historic engagement with democracy, Government will ensure that the Commission is mandated to examine all constitutional matters relevant to the governance, administration, and rights pertaining to the Republic as a whole. This will necessarily include the distinct circumstances, needs and developmental realities of Rodrigues, Agalega, the Chagos Archipelago, and any other Outer Island. AIR MAURITIUS LTD. – AIRPLANES SALE – AUDIT FINDINGS