Mauritius considers taking Chagos issue to the ICJ
Monday 2 August 2004
Mauritius is considering taking the dispute over the Chagos islands to the International Court of Justice in the Hague, reports Mauritius’ L’Express newspaper.
The Mauritian government is awaiting legal advice as to whether it can do this and remain in the Commonwealth. L’Express reported that: “Any action in the Hague would be in violation of the convention clause that links Mauritius with other member states. According to this clause, a conflict between two member states has to be settled within the organisation.”
Mauritius could therefore have to withdraw from the Commonwealth to continue its fight to recover the Chagos islands.
However, Britain recently changed the rules by announcing that the exception of Commonwealth countries members extends to former members also.
Related stories:
28 July 04 - Commonwealth boss attacks Britain over Mauritius snub
27 June 04 - Mauritius considers leaving the Commonwealth
18 May 04 - Mauritian PM discusses Chagos islands with Bush