Two New Members Sworn Into Mauritius Equal Opportunities Commission

Mauritius has appointed two new members to its Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC), the independent body responsible for investigating and addressing discrimination across the island. President of the Republic Dharambeer Gokhool formally nominated Noor Muhammad Ally Meeajun and Khemraj Sanmukhiya to the commission. Both men were sworn in on Tuesday, 29 July 2026, at State House in Le Réduit — the official residence of the Mauritian head of state — in a ceremony presided over by the President himself. Each appointment is valid for a period of four years. **How were they appointed?** The nominations were made in accordance with sections 27(1C) and 27(1D) of the Equal Opportunities Act, Mauritius's primary legislation combating discrimination. Under these provisions, the President acts on the advice of the Prime Minister — in this case Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam — and after consultation with the Leader of the Opposition. The two new members then took their oath of office under section 27(1G) of the same Act. This cross-party consultation requirement is designed to ensure that appointments to the EOC remain politically balanced and command broad public confidence. **What is the Equal Opportunities Commission?** Established under the Equal Opportunities Act 2008, the EOC is an independent statutory body tasked with eliminating discrimination and promoting equal opportunity in Mauritius. It covers a wide range of grounds including sex, race, colour, caste, religion, national origin, disability, and age, among others. The commission investigates complaints from individuals who believe they have been treated unfairly in areas such as employment, education, the provision of goods and services, and accommodation. It can mediate disputes, conduct inquiries, and refer unresolved cases to the Equal Opportunities Tribunal. The EOC is composed of a chairperson and several commissioners, all appointed by the President. Their independence from government is a central feature of the commission's mandate. **What this means** The swearing-in of two new commissioners ensures the EOC is properly staffed to handle discrimination complaints and fulfil its statutory duties. For Mauritians who have experienced unfair treatment in the workplace or in public life, the commission remains the first port of call for redress. The appointments also signal the continuation of the institution's work under the current administration led by Prime Minister Ramgoolam. Source: ION News