CCTV at Beau-Bassin Prison: Contract Awarded to Contractplus Ltd Under Scrutiny

A contract worth Rs 13.3 million for the installation of CCTV cameras at Beau-Bassin Prison has raised concerns. Awarded to Contractplus Ltd, led by former MSM MP Ashley Ittoo, the contract is under fire after the company reportedly stopped responding to inquiries from the Mauritius Prison Service, as stated in the Audit report.

This information was provided by Navin Ramgoolam following a question from MP Roshan Jhummun during the Prime Minister’s Question Time in Parliament this Tuesday. The Prime Minister mentioned a case of negligence and assured that the matter will be addressed. He also announced the establishment of a "National Accountability Enforcement Authority."

The Prime Minister stated that, according to the Audit report, no legal advice had been sought regarding this oversight in the contract awarded to Contractplus Ltd.

He further specified that the "National Accountability Enforcement Authority" will be headed by a director general. This body will be responsible for reviewing deficiencies identified in audit reports and taking action against abuses and waste in the public sector.

As announced in the Government Program 2025-2029, the mandate of the Public Accounts Committee will also be expanded to enhance transparency and accountability.

Navin Ramgoolam indicated that he would soon submit proposals to the National Assembly in this regard.

The Prime Minister stated that there would be no more status quo, with possible sanctions and better oversight of public institutions. Finally, he emphasized that Mauritius would benefit from technical assistance from the IMF for the implementation of a budget responsibility law, the "Fiscal Responsibility Act."

When asked for a response, the CEO of Contractplus Ltd, Ashley Ittoo, confirmed delays in the installation of CCTV cameras at Beau-Bassin Prison.

He mentioned some constraints that had hindered the completion of the project, while assuring that the work would be finished by the end of the month.

Regarding the figures mentioned by the Prime Minister during the PMQT, the former MSM MP clarified that it pertains to a rental contract estimated between Rs 100,000 and Rs 150,000 per month.