The Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) organised a seminar on “Enhancing Transparency, Accountability, and Integrity in the Management of Public Funds” on 3 April 2025 at the MRA Integrated Customs Clearance Centre, Plaine Magnien. The event has brought together key stakeholders, including public officials, finance professionals, civil society representatives, and academics.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Titrudeo Dawoodarry, the Acting Director-General of the FCC, highlighted the risks of corruption and malpractice in public funds management. He emphasised that the FCC is committed to enforcing accountability, strengthening governance, and ensuring transparency in public fund management. With a firm stance on zero tolerance, he called for collective action to uphold integrity, enforce accountability and restore public trust.
Mr. Rubysen Rambocus, Chairperson of Transparency Mauritius, highlighted the critical role of civil society in ensuring the integrity and transparency of public funds management. He called for a multistakeholder approach to tackling financial crimes, including greater collaboration between institutions, civil society, and the public. He also stressed the importance of making financial data more accessible and strengthening mechanisms for whistleblower protection.
Mr. Richard Rault, one of the Commissioners of the FCC, highlighted that Mauritius currently ranks fifth in the Corruption Perception Index among Sub-Saharan African countries, trailing behind Seychelles in the top position. He stressed the urgency of addressing this issue and the importance of working towards achieving the top rank in the coming years.
The seminar featured insightful presentations from experts in the field. Mr. Fayyaad Arzamkhan, Legal Adviser of the FCC, highlighted the legal aspects of managing public funds and the consequences of financial crimes. Mr. Abdool Raman, Ag. Chief Investigator at the FCC, shared key findings from ongoing investigations into financial crimes involving public funds. Mr. Kadress R. Chedumbarum Pillay, former Minister and former Director of Audit, discussed the role of audits in ensuring accountability in public sector finance. Mrs. Kavita Jogarah-Seegolun, Chief Officer of the Education and Preventive Division at the FCC, focused on preventive measures and strategies for reducing financial crime risks. Lastly, Mr. Khalid Hamid, International Director at the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy, provided an overview of global best practices for managing public funds efficiently and transparently.
A key segment was the open-floor discussion, moderated by Mr. L. Amédée Darga, Managing Director of Straconsult, which allowed participants to identify challenges in public funds management and offer actionable recommendations to enhance transparency and accountability.
Several key takeaways emerged from this seminar:
- Legal and Investigative Frameworks: A strong legal framework and active investigations are essential to hold those accountable for financial crimes involving public funds. The FCC’s role in this regard is critical to maintaining public trust. It also called for reinforcing the legal framework for whistleblower protection.
- Audit and Oversight: Regular audits and effective oversight mechanisms are vital for ensuring financial accountability. The seminar emphasised the need for robust and independent audit practices and continuous improvement of public sector financial management.
- Preventive Measures: Proactive strategies such as training programs and awareness campaigns were highlighted as essential tools to prevent financial crimes and instill a culture of integrity within public institutions.
- Global Best Practices: International best practices were discussed, providing insights into how Mauritius can further strengthen its public fund management systems by adopting more efficient, transparent, and accountable approaches.
- Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: The importance of collaboration between government bodies, civil society, and the private sector was underscored as a means of reinforcing financial integrity and ensuring the responsible use of public resources.
The FCC extends its appreciation to all speakers, moderator, and participants for their valuable contributions to the seminar. The Commission will be following-up on the suggestions and insights shared during the event.