Chagossians announce Government-in-Exile

The Chagos Islands community has announced the creation of a Government-in-Exile, following an informal referendum in which 96% of voters supported the proposal. More than 1,000 Chagossians worldwide were eligible to participate, and the result was led by newly-elected Interim First Minister Misley Mandarian.

This poll which took place over the weekend received the following results:

Question 1 : Formation of a Government-in-Exile

Do you support the creation of a Chagossian Representative Government-in-Exile to represent the Chagossian people until a permanent settlement is achieved?

• In favour: 1,233 (91.9%)

• Against: 108 (8.1%)

Question 2 : Appointment of an Interim First Minister

Do you support Misley Mandarin serving as Interim First Minister for a period of one year, while a Charter is drafted and formal elections are prepared?

• In favour: 1,326 (98.9%)

• Against: 15 (1.1%)

The announcement comes amid growing scrutiny from international bodies. The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination recently urged both the UK and Mauritius to pause ratification of the sovereignty deal, warning that it may violate Chagossians’ rights by preventing resettlement on Diego Garcia.

The Government-in-Exile has pledged to seek recognition from international institutions and governments. Its leaders say they will advocate for resettlement, compensation, and cultural preservation, while challenging the UK-Mauritius agreement as inconsistent with international law and human rights standards.