The National Transport Corporation (CNT) in Mauritius is reviewing several financial benefits and facilities granted to its former director general, Harvin Soonarane, following his departure. A memorandum dated November 6, 2026, signed and addressed to the head of the human resources department, outlines the decisions made during the council's 606th meeting on November 2. The council has requested explanations on a loan and a gratuity equivalent to two months' salary.
The council wants to verify the eligibility of the former director general for the gratuity, considering the circumstances of his resignation and whether he respected the one-month notice period. They also want to examine the payment of the gratuity after his first year of contract without council approval. A detailed report on this matter has been requested. Furthermore, the council is seeking clarification on the car loan granted to Soonarane without prior approval.
The council is also examining the repayment or recovery of the outstanding balance on the car loan. Additionally, they will review other sums that Soonarane may be entitled to, including passage benefits and payment for unused annual leave. The council has approved the payment of his October 2026 salary, calculated at the reduced rate, until his last day of work.
The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) will be informed of Soonarane's resignation if he benefited from customs duty exemptions for purchasing a vehicle. The memorandum does not conclude any irregularities at this stage but plans a detailed examination of the benefits granted, the authorizations surrounding them, and any outstanding sums.
The council's review aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of benefits and facilities granted to senior executives. This move follows Soonarane's departure from the CNT. The examination will cover the procedures and approvals in place for granting such benefits.
Key aspects under review include the car loan, the two months' salary gratuity, and other benefits such as passage benefits and annual leave payments. The council seeks to understand the basis for granting these benefits and whether proper protocols were followed.
The outcome of the review and any subsequent actions will likely have implications for the governance and oversight of executive benefits within the CNT and possibly other state corporations in Mauritius. The process is ongoing, with a focus on clarifying the circumstances surrounding the benefits granted to Soonarane.
Key points
- The CNT council in Mauritius is scrutinizing benefits granted to former director Harvin Soonarane, including a car loan and a gratuity.
- The review aims to ensure transparency and accountability in executive benefits management.
- The council's examination will determine if proper protocols were followed in granting these benefits.
