Mauritius’ former central bank governor, Harvesh Seegolam, and former finance minister Renganaden Padayachy have been charged with fraud and released on bail following their arrest over the alleged embezzlement of 300 million Mauritius rupees ($6.7 million) from a state-backed COVID-19 relief fund.
The two were taken into custody on Wednesday in connection with the ongoing investigation into the Mauritius Investment Corporation (MIC), which was established to support businesses impacted by the pandemic. Both men deny any wrongdoing.
“Seegolam is collaborating with the authorities. He is giving all evidence and information related to this case,” said his lawyer, shortly after confirming his client’s bail.
While both men have been charged, the Financial Crimes Commission said its investigation into Padayachy remains ongoing and initially opposed his release. He is expected to reappear in court on April 17.
Padayachy’s lawyer, Raouf Gulbul, pushed back against the allegations: “In a match, it’s not the first player to score who wins. A match is played over 90 minutes. I am not afraid of new allegations against my client.”
The arrests come amid a broader anti-corruption drive led by Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam’s government, which came to power last November. Ramgoolam has accused the previous administration of falsifying economic data, including growth figures, debt levels and budget deficits.
One of the new government’s first acts was to order a full audit of public finances. Former Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, under whom both Seegolam and Padayachy served, was himself arrested in February on money laundering charges, which he denies.
As investigations deepen, the cases are fuelling public calls for greater accountability and transparency in Mauritius’ public sector.
Melissa Enoch
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