Asset Valuation Failures Undermine Public Trust
eMail Box
I read online last week’s article by Prakash Neerohoo, “Public sector management – Why is Valuation of Assets always Problematic?” The author rightly highlights a deeply troubling pattern in public sector management: the consistent misvaluation of assets. This issue is far more than a technical accounting problem; it represents a fundamental failure in public stewardship and a disregard for taxpayers’ money.
The case of the undervalued Porsche sold to a retired public servant is a clear-cut example of the principle of getting the “best possible prices for assets acquired or sold” being blatantly ignored. The substantial discrepancy between the calculated Net Book Value (Rs 2.3 million) and the selling price (Rs 415,000) strongly suggests either professional incompetence or, more worryingly, a politically motivated decision to grant an undeserved capital gain to an individual. This loss of nearly Rs 1.85 million is a concrete “manque à gagner” for the Treasury.
The author’s analysis of the Mauritius Investment Corporation (MIC) investments and the Air Mauritius aircraft sale paints a similar picture of questionable judgement, leading to massive impairment losses and foregone revenue. Whether assets are undervalued on sale (the car, the aircraft) or overvalued on purchase (MIC land/shares, Medpoint Clinic), the net result is the same: private parties benefit significantly while the public purse bears the loss.
The relevant authorities, such as the Financial Crimes Commission (FCC), must launch thorough, independent investigations into these transactions to hold decision-makers accountable and restore public trust.
J. Maha Deva
Sheffield, UK
Change Slogans, Same Old Politics
Last week’s editorial, “A Call for Change,” perfectly captures the sense of disillusionment many feel these days. While the public voted for a fresh approach, they are seeing the same old ways of doing things.
The government’s failure to consult citizens on key issues like pension reform and its reliance on political appointments over meritocracy are major missteps. It’s clear that winning an election is not the same as winning the trust of the people. Your editorial rightly points out that the government is missing opportunities to build trust through simple, symbolic acts. The proposed solution is spot on –it’s not about grand, expensive projects, but a shift in mindset. If the government doesn’t listen to its people and prove that “change” was more than just a slogan, it risks losing public trust.
P. Lim Yan
Roches Brunes
The Case for Patience
While well-written, this paper’s editorial, published last week, appears overly pessimistic about the current government’s performance. You seem to forget that meaningful change takes time and can’t be delivered in just a few months.
The criticism of the pension reform is a case in point. The government is right to tackle this difficult and unpopular issue. While the communication could have been better, it shows political courage to address a looming fiscal problem instead of “kicking the can down the road” – as others have said- like previous administrations. The public’s negative reaction is expected, as no one likes a change that affects their future benefits, regardless of how necessary it is.
The editorial also overlooks the realpolitik of forming a new government. It’s natural and necessary for a new leader to appoint trusted allies to key positions. Loyalty and a pre-existing working relationship are often more important in the initial months than finding an entirely new face. The government can’t be expected to completely abandon political realities just to satisfy a desire for “new faces.”
Joydeep K. Beekarmma
Quatre Bornes
Open Letter to the Minister of Tourism
Proposal for a Dedicated Tourist Police Force to Enhance Visitor Safety
Mauritius is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Tourism is more than an economic pillar—it’s a reflection of our national identity and pride. As such, the safety and well-being of our visitors must be our top priority.
I therefore respectfully propose the establishment of a dedicated 24-hour Tourist Police Force to patrol our beaches and highways. This initiative would serve as a proactive measure to assist tourists in distress, whether they are lost, involved in an accident, facing vehicle trouble, or feeling unsafe in unfamiliar surroundings.
A dedicated Tourist Police Force would provide several key benefits to visitors. First, it would ensure a rapid emergency response, as officers could assist with accidents, and medical emergencies, etc. Second, a visible presence through beach patrols would deter theft and harassment, ensuring swift intervention when needed. Furthermore, a specialized force would offer multilingual support, as trained officers could guide lost tourists and provide reassurance in their native languages. Finally, regular patrols would serve as a form of crisis prevention, helping to stop incidents from escalating.
To ensure sustainability, I propose that hotels, resorts, and other tourism operators contribute to a Tourist Safety Fund, acknowledging their direct stake in visitor satisfaction and safety. This shared responsibility would strengthen public-private collaboration and reinforce our commitment to excellence.
Recent public sentiment, including viral social media posts demanding prompt police action on beaches, reflects a growing concern among citizens and visitors alike. We must act decisively to preserve our reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.
Honourable Minister, this initiative aligns perfectly with Mauritius’s vision of becoming a world-class tourism hub. I urge your office to consider this proposal and initiate a dialogue with relevant stakeholders to bring it to life.
Poonoosamy Runghen
1-519-496-3572
krunghen@yahoo.ca
Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 29 August 2025
An Appeal
Dear Reader
65 years ago Mauritius Times was founded with a resolve to fight for justice and fairness and the advancement of the public good. It has never deviated from this principle no matter how daunting the challenges and how costly the price it has had to pay at different times of our history.
With print journalism struggling to keep afloat due to falling advertising revenues and the wide availability of free sources of information, it is crucially important for the Mauritius Times to survive and prosper. We can only continue doing it with the support of our readers.
The best way you can support our efforts is to take a subscription or by making a recurring donation through a Standing Order to our non-profit Foundation.
Thank you.
