A ceremony to commemorate the deportation of Chagossians was held this morning at the port. For once, the event did not welcome any political figure. Olivier Bancoult, leader of the Groupe Refugiés Chagos, confronts England with its contradictions. “The British want to set an example everywhere while they violate the institutions, they are part of,” he said.
In his speech, Olivier Bancoult said he hoped that British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who is at COP26 with Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, would start respecting human rights.
Prayers were said by Reverend Gérard Mongelard and Reverend Mario Li Hing and the siren of a boat was sounded.
In a statement, Mr. Louis Olivier Bancoult highlighted that today’s commemoration marks a historical moment for the Chagossian Community, namely the recognition of the endurance of the Chagossian Community in regards to the forced deportation of its population.
On this solemn occasion today, he said, we are also paying tribute to those Chagossians who have passed away, and to all those who have contributed to our fight against our expulsion from our native land, in particular women. He observed that this site was symbolical of their forced exile and the agony, injustice and hardship that their Chagossian ancestors endured.
Furthermore, Mr. Louis Olivier Bancoult deplored that the Chagossian community could not celebrate All Saints’ Day and mourn for their loved ones on their tombs in Chagos. The ceremony of tossing of flowers in the ocean was held in remembrance of our loved ones, he added.
He expressed optimism that the Chagossian community will be able to be in their homeland by next year.
