In a recent revelation, lawyer Samad Golamaully stated that Mauritius Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam was aware of the existence of a controversial audio tape, known as the "David and Karl" tape, as early as November 2025. The tape is linked to a bribery scandal involving a Malagasy businessman, Maminiaina "Mamy" Ravatomanga. Golamaully, who represents Nasser Beekhy, a key figure in the case, made these claims during an interview on September 29.
According to Golamaully, the events surrounding the audio tape began on October 14, 2025, when his client, Mamy Ravatomanga, met with Junaid Fakim and David Thomas in Quatre-Bornes. The Financial Crimes Commission (FCC) subsequently investigated Thomas's residence in Calodyne, but no evidence was seized, and no arrests were made. The FCC's involvement began on October 21, 2025.
Nasser Beekhy contacted the Prime Minister's office on October 22, 2025, to report alleged bribery attempts by several individuals, including Karl Elysée. Beekhy claimed that the amount demanded was Rs 350 million. The FCC then set a trap for Elysée, recording a conversation between him and David Thomas on October 23, 2025.
The audio tape in question was sent to a contact in France on October 23, 2025, and returned to Beekhy on November 21, 2025. Golamaully claims that Beekhy then transferred the tape to Prime Minister Ramgoolam personally. However, Ramgoolam has stated that he only learned of the tape's existence in September 2026 and did not listen to it after being told it was a fake.
Golamaully has raised questions about the FCC's handling of the case, particularly regarding the recovery of deleted data from seized phones. He also disputes claims that Beekhy admitted to deleting data from his phone. The lawyer has challenged Ramgoolam to contest his claims.
The case has raised concerns about the involvement of multiple parties and potential motives. Paul Bérenger, the Deputy Prime Minister at the time, had stated that negotiations began during a dinner on October 11, 2025. However, Golamaully suggests that the solicitations may have started earlier, potentially while Ravatomanga's plane was en route to Mauritius.
The controversy surrounding the audio tape has sparked questions about the actions of the FCC and the Prime Minister's office. The case involves allegations of bribery, extortion, and tampering with evidence. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen whether further revelations will be made.
Key points
- The Prime Minister of Mauritius received an audio tape linked to a bribery scandal in November 2025.
- The tape was recorded by Nasser Beekhy and involves alleged bribery attempts by several individuals.
- The case has raised concerns about the handling of evidence and potential motives behind the alleged bribery attempts.
