Rashid Ahmine, Director of Public Prosecutions

“A prosecution-led investigation is an essential requirement for a successful prosecution in highly complex cases”

• “We are also expecting that the FCC Act will be repealed, and that major reforms will be brought to our existing criminal laws.”
  

• “The prosecutorial aspect should be left solely to the ODPP”

In the latest issue of the newsletter of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), Rashid Ahmine, Director of Public Prosecutions, reflects on his two challenging years in office, outlining the vision of his office for justice reform and modernization in Mauritius. Despite significant institutional resistance and resource constraints, Rashid Ahmine stated that he has steered impactful changes to address critical issues in the criminal justice system, including case backlogs, systemic delays, and the protection of vulnerable groups.

The DPP acknowledges the early hurdles of his tenure, including challenges to his decisions from key institutions. These disputes demanded attention and detracted from his primary focus on serving the public. “Precious time was wasted to the prejudice of the public good, but it was all about defending the rule of law and preventing the country from being transformed into a police state,” he stated. Nevertheless, through persistence and reform, the ODPP now handles cases more efficiently, achieving significant reductions in case backlogs and maintaining high conviction rates.

The newsletter emphasizes Rashid Ahmine’s commitment to institutional reforms aimed at strengthening justice and protecting fundamental human rights. Among his key proposals is the establishment of a National Prosecution Authority to enhance the ODPP’s independence, along with constitutional amendments to bolster its authority in leading complex investigations. “A prosecution-led investigation is an essential requirement for a successful prosecution in highly complex cases,” Rashid Ahmine explained.

I strongly recommend a new agency which would fight only the biggest cases of corruption and money laundering.

The DPP also advocates for revisiting the Financial Crimes Commission Act (FCC Act) and restructuring anti-corruption and anti-money laundering efforts to focus solely on investigations. He urges the government to seize this “golden opportunity” to implement meaningful change in these areas.

“We are also expecting that the FCC Act will be repealed and that major reforms will be brought to our existing criminal and procedural laws. With regard to the FCC, it will be for the government to decide which model would best suit our needs, but I very much hope that there will not be a mere change in appellation, and I strongly recommend a new agency altogether which would fight only the biggest cases of corruption and money laundering, focusing exclusively on investigation. The prosecutorial aspect should be left solely to the ODPP,” the DPP underscores. 

A significant part of Rashid Ahmine’s message is devoted to the plight of vulnerable groups, particularly women and children. He calls for urgent reforms to combat domestic violence and fully implement the Children’s Act, citing the pressing need to rehabilitate juvenile offenders. “We are not doing enough to turn young delinquents into responsible and law-abiding citizens. If we fail to act promptly, the consequences could be catastrophic,” he warns, especially in light of the growing drug trafficking crisis.

Drug-related offenses continue to pose a major challenge in Mauritius. While acknowledging some progress under the Dangerous Drugs Act, Rashid Ahmine notes that the focus remains largely on minor offenders, rather than drug lords. “I wonder why, in a small country like ours, it is so difficult to lay hands on them, especially when neighbouring Reunion Island has been far more successful,” he remarks.

The newsletter also outlines the ODPP’s vision for a more technologically advanced institution. Plans include implementing an electronic case management system and leveraging digital tools to streamline casework. Rashid Ahmine also prioritizes the well-being and security of prosecutors, particularly those handling sensitive and distressing cases such as rape and murder. “We must ensure the wellness of our officers to maintain their ability to serve effectively,” he emphasized.

The DPP goes on to underline the importance of partnerships in achieving a stronger justice system. Indeed, the ODPP plans to engage NGOs and stakeholders to address systemic gaps and identify solutions collaboratively. “We want to regroup everyone, hear their concerns, and discuss viable solutions,” he stated, encouraging NGOs to join the ODPP’s reform initiatives.

Reaffirming the ODPP’s commitment to impartiality, Rashid Ahmine stressed the interdependence of stakeholders in the justice system. “Without an investigation, there can be no prosecution, and without a prosecution, the investigation serves no purpose. We are interdependent, and mutual confidence is essential,” he noted.

“Together, we can deliver better outcomes for the people we serve,” he concluded, commending his team for their unwavering dedication.