Africa-Press – Mauritius. Adrien Duval, a representative of the PMSD, expressed the party’s significant influence on the country’s destiny during discussions on the Financial Crimes Commission (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill. He emphasized that the PMSD has consistently defended the independence of institutions but criticized the government for missing the opportunity to reform the recruitment process for the FCC Director.
Duval welcomed the proposed amendments to the FCC Act, reiterating the PMSD’s commitment to institutional independence throughout its participation in various governments. He highlighted the critical differences between the FCC Act and the Prosecution Commission, particularly concerning the appointment powers of the Prime Minister and the potential for undue influence over the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
He pointed out that the position of the FCC Director is currently vacant and argued that the government should have used this bill to change the appointment process. Duval advocated for a recruitment procedure similar to that of the DPP or Chief Justice, which would involve the Judicial and Legal Service Commission, rather than the current method that allows for political influence.
Duval raised concerns about the historical lack of power for the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) to initiate prosecutions, suggesting that the same issues could arise with the FCC if the appointment process remains unchanged. He questioned how the situation would improve if the same nomination practices were continued, emphasizing the need for genuine consultation with the opposition rather than a mere formality.
Concluding his remarks, Duval stressed the importance of seizing the opportunity to reform the appointment process before a new director is appointed. He warned that appointing the wrong person could perpetuate the existing issues within the institution. He reiterated that the PMSD’s stance in 2016 regarding the Prosecution Commission had been crucial in safeguarding the country and underscored the need for secure tenures to prevent governmental overreach and protect institutional integrity.
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