Starmer's Chagos Islands Agreement Faces New Setback as Judge Halts Removal of Islanders
In an unprecedented ruling from mid-air, Justice James Lewis has thrown a wrench into Sir Keir Starmer’s contentious initiative to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. The decision, delivered at approximately 25,000 feet, temporarily halts the removal of islanders who had recently returned.
This latest development compounds the prime minister's challenges, particularly after former President Donald Trump publicly opposed the transfer, a move that could derail Starmer's plans entirely.
Earlier this week, four Chagos islanders landed on Île du Coin, part of the Peros Banhos atoll, asserting their intention to establish a permanent settlement. Misley Mandarin, the elected Chagossian first minister leading the group, declared, “We, the people of the Chagos Islands, stand today on the soil of our homeland,” emphasizing their commitment to returning home.
Despite being served with removal notices on Wednesday, their attorney, James Tumbridge, successfully secured an injunction against their expulsion. This legal maneuver coincided with their representatives seeking a new judge in the UK to contest the government's plans.
Justice Lewis's ruling stemmed from concerns regarding the islanders' lack of consultation in the government's actions. He noted that the islanders were forcibly removed between 1967 and 1973 to facilitate operations at the Diego Garcia military base.
“The balance of convenience falls on the side of the claimants,” Justice Lewis stated, highlighting that the islanders pose no threat to national security given their distance from Diego Garcia. He granted a temporary injunction against their removal for seven days, allowing time for a response from the government.
As tensions escalate, sources within the Trump administration have indicated that the former president's opposition is partly due to concerns over potential negotiations between China and India for control of other islands in the archipelago. Additionally, Trump's frustration with Starmer's refusal to allow US military operations from RAF bases has further complicated relations.
Concerns are also mounting that the UK may be sharing sensitive military information with Mauritius regarding Diego Garcia as part of this controversial deal. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has been approached for comments regarding these developments.
