Africa-Press – Mauritius. Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam heavily criticized the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) and the previous government of Pravind Jugnauth during the second reading of the Gambling Regulatory (Amendment) Bill. He accused the GRA of failing its regulatory mission in horse racing and targeted former officials like Dev Beekharry and Ravi Yerrigadoo for alleged conflicts of interest and mismanagement.
Ramgoolam stated that the GRA “decimated horse racing” by destroying public trust and allowing a “mafia” to control the industry under the previous government. He also criticized the Horse Racing Division (HRD) for being a political tool and failing to act independently. He highlighted the mysterious disappearance and reappearance of the Parry report on corruption in horse racing as further evidence of the previous government’s failures. The goal of the new bill is to restore public trust by creating a Horse Racing Integrity Division and ensuring fair, clean races free from corruption. The Prime Minister also criticized the abolition of off-course bookmakers.
Opposition Leader Joe Lesjongard raised concerns about the bill, stating that it reverses progress made in reforming the horse racing sector. He warned of potential collusion and malfeasance, arguing that the amendments give too much power back to race organizers. Lesjongard also expressed concerns about potential money laundering and the weakening of AML-CFT measures.
Minister of Agro-Industry Arvin Boolell defended the bill, accusing the previous government of deliberately trying to bankrupt the Mauritius Turf Club (MTC) to benefit certain interests. He stated that the amendments are long overdue and will restore public confidence. Boolell also accused a former advisor to the Prime Minister of illicit enrichment and manipulation.
Attorney General Gavin Glover criticized Lesjongard for defending those who “held the Champ de Mars hostage” for personal gain. He highlighted the failures of the previous GRA and HRD, stating that the new bill will abolish the HRD and transfer its powers to the board. Glover emphasized that horse racing is a cultural heritage that must be protected.
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