On October 7, 2026, Mamy Ravatomanga, a Malagasy businessman, appeared before the Mauritian Supreme Court as part of a Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) procedure initiated at the request of the Malagasy authorities. During this private hearing, Ravatomanga swore an affidavit in response to questions from the Malagasy authorities. His lawyer, Me Khushal Lobine, stated that his client disputes several elements and reserves the right to take legal action against the State, certain individuals, and authorities that he believes have harmed him.
According to Me Lobine, the questions transmitted by the Malagasy authorities cover several aspects, particularly those related to the provisional accusations faced by Ravatomanga in Mauritius. The lawyer asserts that several responses contained in the affidavit reiterate elements that Ravatomanga had already communicated to the authorities since his arrival in Mauritius. Ravatomanga's defense team contests certain accusations, including the fabrication of evidence and allegations.
Ravatomanga has been detained at Melrose prison since his arrest by the Financial Crimes Commission on October 24, 2025. He faces two provisional accusations of money laundering and one count of criminal conspiracy related to a presumed influence trafficking. The defense disputes these accusations. In parallel, Ravatomanga is involved in several procedures in Madagascar, particularly in the case concerning the sale of five Boeing 777.
The appearance of Ravatomanga before the Mauritian Supreme Court is part of the international aspect of the case. This new procedure does not constitute a trial on the merits but rather a step in the judicial assistance mechanism allowing the Malagasy authorities to obtain responses from Ravatomanga through the Mauritian authorities. The next step is scheduled for October 26, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., when the Attorney General's Office will communicate its position regarding Ravatomanga's responses.
Me Lobine insists on his client's profile as an investor. He affirms that Ravatomanga came to Mauritius because he believed in the Mauritian jurisdiction and wished to invest in the country's economy. According to him, Ravatomanga has worked and invested in Mauritius for around thirty years, particularly in the banking sector. This element is essential for the defense in the way Ravatomanga intends to present his situation and defend his image.
The defense clearly displays its strategy: responding to the questions of the Malagasy authorities under oath, contesting the elements considered unfounded, and, if necessary, taking the appropriate legal actions to defend Ravatomanga's name and reputation. In the Mauritian aspect of the case, another deadline is also expected. The Bail and Remand Court must make its decision regarding the new request for the release of the businessman.
Ravatomanga's lawyer stated that his client will "wash his honor and reputation." Me Lobine affirms that Ravatomanga reserves the right to manifest himself, "in time and place," with legal actions against the State, certain individuals, and authorities that he estimates responsible for harm against him.
Key points
- Mamy Ravatomanga appeared before the Mauritian Supreme Court as part of a judicial assistance procedure requested by Malagasy authorities.
- Ravatomanga disputes several elements and reserves the right to take legal action against the State, certain individuals, and authorities.
- The next step in the procedure is scheduled for October 26, 2026.
