Basin of Slaves: Figures Representing Submission to be Removed and Replaced, Says Subron

On the eve of February 1st, which marks the 191st anniversary of the abolition of slavery, government officials laid wreaths on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the Basin of Slaves in Pamplemousses. This site holds significant symbolism, as it was once where thousands of slaves were brought before being sold.

The Minister of Arts and Heritage, Mahen Goondea, along with Junior Minister Véronique Leu-Govind, was present alongside the Minister of Social Integration and Social Security, Ashok Subron, and other government representatives. They all observed a moment of silence in memory of the victims of slavery.

During this occasion, Ashok Subron announced that the figures depicting kneeling slaves, installed during the previous regime, will be removed and replaced. He stated that these symbols convey an image of submission that is incompatible with the spirit of freedom that Mauritius seeks to promote.

"We are going to have these figures removed because we do not agree that while we commemorate suffering, as well as the fight for freedom, images of submission—propagated by colonizers and others responsible for slavery—be highlighted," the minister declared.

He added, "It was painful, but they also fought. We celebrate a rich yet painful history. It is also the history of freedom."

For his part, Mahen Goondea reminded everyone of the symbolic significance of the site, reflecting on the suffering endured by the slaves. "This is where they were washed, displayed, examined, and sold," he emphasized.

Text and video: Waren Marie