Mauritius is considering legal action against the United Kingdom over delays in ratifying a treaty to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam confirmed this week. The move follows growing frustration in Port Louis as the UK pauses ratification amid discussions with the United States regarding the future of the Diego Garcia military base.
Under the proposed agreement, the UK would return the archipelago to Mauritius while retaining control of Diego Garcia through a leaseback arrangement. However, Ramgoolam told local newspaper Defi Media that there is currently "no visibility" on when the treaty will be finalized, prompting Mauritius to consult international law firms about potential litigation.
The stalled process has raised concerns about diplomatic and economic planning in Mauritius, where the Chagos settlement is seen as a strategic priority. UK Minister Hamish Falconer announced last month that ratification efforts were being paused for additional consultations, further complicating cross-regional negotiations.
Analysts suggest the delay reflects broader geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding US military interests in the Indian Ocean. The Diego Garcia base has served as a critical strategic asset for Western powers since the 1970s, when the UK separated the Chagos Islands from Mauritius during decolonization.
