British Chagossians Bertrice Pompe, 54, and Bernadette Dugasse, 68, have accused the UK government of betrayal for transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius despite an 11th-hour legal challenge. The deal was finalized after a judge discharged an injunction obtained by the women in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Born on the largest island, Diego Garcia, both women were displaced from their homeland and forced to move to Seychelles as children. They claim that the UK’s decision is unfair and ignores their right of return.
The Chagossians feel sidelined as the deal prioritizes the security of a US airbase over their concerns. Dugasse described being “heartbroken” after losing the injunction, saying she feels betrayed by the British government.
Pompe and Dugasse plan to continue fighting for the rights of their community, urging MPs to vote against the deal in parliament and taking further legal action. They argue that the UK’s past actions amount to a crime against humanity and that they are being “scammed” again.
The agreement has sparked international criticism, but the government maintains that it is a “legal necessity” required by international court rulings. However, the Chagossians remain hopeful for change and are determined to bring attention to their cause.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/may/23/british-chagossians-accuse-uk-government-of-betrayal-over-sovereignty-deal