As we marked International Anti-Corruption Day 2025 this 9 December, the FCC was privileged to host His Excellency, Mr. Dharambeer Gokhool, G.C.S.K, President of the Republic of Mauritius, at our national commemoration held at the FCC in Réduit.
The event also saw a panel discussion with Prof. Thuli Madonsela, renowned South African advocate for integrity and former Public Protector of the Republic of South Africa, a global symbol of courage and integrity and our Guest of Honour, and the Director of Public Prosecutions, Me Rashid Ahmine. Moderated by lawyer Johanne Hague, the insightful debate was attended by key institutional leaders, experts, youth representatives and stakeholders from across the country.
In the presence of our Commissioners, Me Richard Rault, Me Nitish Hurnaum, and Mrs Virginie Lennon, Acting Director General Mr. Sanjay Dawoodarry emphasised that the fight against corruption is a moral imperative, rooted in fairness, integrity and equal opportunity. He highlighted that the FCC’s work goes beyond investigations, promoting integrity through education and prevention programs, conducting Financial Crimes Prevention Reviews.
With the Financial Crimes Commission Act 2023 mandating compliance with FCC directives, public sector accountability is strengthened, further supporting Mauritius’ preparation for the upcoming Financial Action Task Force evaluation, essential for safeguarding the country’s reputation as a credible financial hub. Mr. Dawoodarry concluded with a powerful statement: “Corruption is not a victimless crime. It is theft from the poorest, betrayal of the vulnerable, and sabotage of our future.”
His Excellency, President Gokhool reaffirmed that corruption is more than a criminal offence: it is a betrayal of public trust, one that fuels inequality, weakens institutions and threatens the moral fabric of a nation.
Echoing this year’s theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” he emphasised the central role of young people, both as victims of corruption and as key actors in advancing transparency, digital accountability and civic responsibility. Calling for a unified national effort involving families, schools, professionals, institutions and leaders, he concluded with a resonant reminder: “Corruption destroys nations quietly, but integrity builds them loudly.”
As we conclude this week of activities, conversations, and reflections, let us move forward together, protecting the credibility of our institutions and safeguarding the future of our Republic.