Mauritius Must Not Remain Silent — The Clock Is Ticking.

On 22 May 2025, a historic treaty was signed between the Republic of Mauritius and the United Kingdom. For the first time in decades, Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago — including Diego Garcia — was formally recognized. This was the culmination of tireless legal, diplomatic, and moral struggle. It was a victory not just for Mauritius, but for the principles of decolonization, international law, and justice.

But now, less than a month later, that hard-won recognition is under direct threat.

On 10 June 2025, a new bill — the British Indian Ocean Territory (Sovereignty and Constitutional Arrangements) Bill (Bill 258) — was introduced in the UK House of Commons. If passed, this bill would:

• Reaffirm UK sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago — contradicting the 2025 treaty;
• Prohibit UK ministers from entering or ratifying any treaty that alters sovereignty without a full Act of Parliament;
• Invalidate international rulings such as the 2019 ICJ Advisory Opinion;
• Block UK financial commitments to Mauritius unless further authorized;
• Exclude Mauritius from decision-making while consulting only British Chagossians. 

This is not a symbolic gesture — it is a calculated legislative move to block, delay, or sabotage the transfer of sovereignty that the UK already agreed to.

 “Sovereignty is not inherited — it is asserted, defended, and honoured. The moment we grow silent in its defense, we invite betrayal.”
— Dave Kissoondoyal

•  Why This Petition Matters

This bill threatens to reverse international progress and erode Mauritius’ rights through domestic legislation in the UK. It represents a modern colonial backlash cloaked in lawmaking.

Mauritius has the legal right, the international recognition, and the moral high ground. But if we do not act now, that right can be delayed or denied once more.

We Demand That the Government of Mauritius:

1. Summon the UK High Commissioner and demand clarification on whether this bill represents official UK government policy.
2. Publicly reject the legitimacy of the Sovereignty Bill in all local and international forums.
3. Request formal clarification from the UK Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs.
4. Activate the Joint Commission under the treaty to address the bill’s implications.
5. Mobilize support from the African Union, Commonwealth Secretariat, and the UN.
6. Inform and engage the Mauritian public and Parliament — this is a national issue, not just a diplomatic one!

Add Your Voice

This is about more than an island. This is about justice, dignity, and the future of our nation’s sovereignty.

By signing this petition, you are joining a call for:

• Accountability.
• Action.
• And an unshakable stand for Mauritius’ rightful claim.

Let us never again allow decisions about our sovereignty to be taken without us — or against us.

Sign. Share. Stand up.

#ChagosIsOurs
#RespectSovereignty
#DecolonizationNow
#StandWithMauritius