Franklin Said That He Did Not Own A Boat Or Have Any Connection With Boat Owners Or Skippers

The debates surrounding the motion for the release of Jean Hubert Célerine, alias Franklin, continued yesterday morning. Franklin was called to the witness stand this morning. He was first questioned by his lawyer, Yatin Varma. He said that he has been abroad four or five times but has never been to Reunion Island. He explained that he is a father of five children, two girls and three boys. He insisted that he is the one who takes care of them. Jean Hubert Célerine also said that he suffers from seasickness. “I can’t last more than five minutes on a boat,” Franklin said. He added that he prefers the river to the sea, even though his father was a fisherman. He added that he did not own a boat or have any connection with boat owners or skippers. The businessman said that he spends all his time with his family and animals. He added that he goes to St Anthony’s Church every Sunday where he donates food. “I like to do voluntary work. I am a simple, straightforward, honest and generous man,” he said. Franklin insisted that he loves his country and will end his life in Mauritius. Franklin also said that he has always been at the disposal of the police and that if he is released, there is no risk that he will flee the country. Especially since, for him, family is sacred.