UK High Court blocks legal challenge to Chagos agreement with Mauritius
Legal Proceedings Dismissed in Chagos Archipelago Agreement Case
Legal Proceedings Dismissed in Chagos Archipelago Agreement Case
The High Court in London has declined to grant permission for legal proceedings against the British Foreign Office regarding the United Kingdom's agreement with Mauritius concerning the Chagos Archipelago.
The challenge was brought forward by three plaintiffs, including Bertrice Pompe, a British national born on Diego Garcia. They contended that the British government failed to consult with the Chagossians before finalizing the arrangement with Mauritius. Bertrice Pompe previously attempted to block the agreement in court in May, but was unsuccessful.
The challenge was brought forward by three plaintiffs, including Bertrice Pompe, a British national born on Diego Garcia.
Judge Mary Stacey, in her written decision, acknowledged the historical mistreatment of the Chagos Islands' inhabitants during the 1960s and 1970s, when the Chagossians were displaced for the establishment of military facilities. However, the judge determined that the current challenge reiterated arguments previously reviewed and rejected by English courts in related cases.
Consequently, the High Court has refused permission to proceed with the legal action.
Britain retained control of the Chagos Islands after Mauritius achieved independence in the 1960s, subsequently displacing all inhabitants to construct a military base. In May, an agreement was reached for Britain to transfer sovereignty back to Mauritius while maintaining a lease on Diego Garcia, the largest island and site of the U.S. military base.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
