EDB Offers CEO Rs 850,000 Monthly Package

The Mauritian government's offer to appoint Raja Ramdaursingh as Chief Executive Officer of the Economic Development Board (EDB) has come under parliamentary scrutiny, after the proposed remuneration package was disclosed in response to a Written Question tabled by opposition MP Adrien Duval. According to information shared in Parliament, Ramdaursingh would receive Rs 850,000 per month in the role — translating to a minimum annual package of Rs 13.6 million. The figure places the EDB CEO position among the most generously compensated posts within Mauritius's para-public sector. At the time the parliamentary response was given, Ramdaursingh had not yet formally accepted the offer, leaving his appointment technically unconfirmed. The disclosure nonetheless triggered immediate public debate over executive compensation in state-linked bodies at a time when many Mauritians continue to face cost-of-living pressures. The EDB is one of Mauritius's most strategically important institutions, responsible for driving foreign investment, promoting exports, and supporting the diversification of the island's economy. Its CEO role carries significant weight in shaping the country's economic trajectory, particularly as the government pursues ambitious targets in sectors such as fintech, renewable energy, and the blue economy. What makes this disclosure particularly notable is the mechanism through which it emerged: a Written Question from the opposition, rather than a proactive government announcement. This raises broader questions about transparency in the appointment and remuneration processes for senior leaders of para-public bodies in Mauritius — institutions that are publicly funded yet often operate with limited public accountability. Critics may argue that while competitive salaries are necessary to attract top-tier talent to lead such institutions, the lack of a standardised, publicly accessible pay framework for para-public CEOs creates an environment where individual negotiations can go unchecked. Calls for a clearer, merit-based compensation grid for state body executives are likely to grow louder following this revelation. The government has yet to make a formal statement on the timeline for Ramdaursingh's final decision or a potential start date should he accept the position. Source: Le Mauricien