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SHAME SHAME SHAME
23 October, 2008
I am still too angry and upset to properly comment on the call of these wigged relics from colonial times and restrict myself to some good links
First of all the "judgement" text can be found at:
http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld200708/ldjudgmt/jd081022/banc-1.htm
"Mr Bancoult did not want the base closed (he hoped it might employ resettled Chagossians) but was willing to lead a landing on the outer islands. In either case, since permanent resettlement on the islands was impractical without substantial investment, the landings, even if followed by temporary camps, could be no more than gestures in furtherance of the respective political aims of the parties, designed to attract publicity and embarrass the governments of the United Kingdom and the United States. (On 12 March 2008 the Guardian reported that two British "human rights campaigners" had been arrested by the off Diego Garcia. They said that they were part of a group called the People's Navy which has been seeking to highlight the plight of the Chagossians and to protest against the military use of the islands.)"
"In a conquered or ceded colony the Crown, by virtue of its prerogative, has full power to establish such executive, legislative, and judicial arrangements as this Crown thinks fit, and generally to act both executively and legislatively, provided the provisions made by the Crown do not contravene any Act of Parliament extending to the colony or to all British possessions. The Crown's legislative and constituent powers are exercisable by Order in Council, Letters Patent or Proclamation." Authority for these propositions will be found in Lord Mansfield's judgment in Campbell v Hall (1774) 1 Cowp 204 ("no question was ever started before, but that the King has a right to a legislative authority over a conquered country.")
My comment on this is:
In other words they have to go back to 1774 to excuse themselves
The Reuters correspondent in the Indian Ocean posted an interesting blog at:
http://blogs.reuters.com/africanews/2008/10/22/should-we-really-care-about-the-chagossians/
Should we really care about the Chagossians? I posted the following comment:
Thanks for raising the question Ed. My answer is clearly YES, we do care. The human rights of the Chagossions are grossly violated and any civil society cannot accept that. In an environmental sense the Chagos Archipelagos is indeed unique and could probably be best served by declaring it a Marine Reserve. The Chagossians could play an important function as guardians of the reserve. They will probably do a better job at it then the US is doing to the Diego Garcia reefs. Has there ever been an environmental impact study on the effects of US military activities at Diego Garcia? Approximately 50 foreign seiners and 25 longliners are licenced by the UK government each year to fish for tuna in the Chagos EEZ. An estimated 21 ton of fish was caught in 2006 by the inhabitants of Diego Garcia.
See http://www.iotc.org/files/proceedings/2007/sc/IOTC-2007-SC-INF06.pdf
The Guardian is running a poll right now
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/poll/2008/oct/22/law-humanrights
"The point of no return - Despite two earlier court decisions in their favour, the exiled Chagos islanders have lost their case for a right to return on a split decision of the law lords, who were swung by the government's arguments on behalf of the US that the islands are strategically important in the 'war on terror'. Is this the right judgment?"
While at the Guardian read Duncan Campbell's excellent article
" A sentence of bitter irony - How else to describe a ruling that deprives the Chagossians of a right of return so the US can use Diego Garcia for 'renditions'?"
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2008/oct/22/chagos-islands-law-lords
Meanwhile my friends i wait until i cool down before we need to seriously think about what to do next. I know the next step will most likely be the Human Rights court in Strassbourg, but we know that the UK government will ignore that.
The Chagossians will return though. I know that for sure
Martini Gotj - Chagos Support Group Waiheke Island
The Chagossians fate - Sean Carey - New Statesman
20 October, 2008
On Wednesday the Law Lords will deliver their verdict on the Chagossians right to return home. Sean Carey looks back on their decades in exile.
A Chagossian family in exile in Port Louis, Mauritius
It was 25 years ago and I was stood outside 25 Jean Baptiste Lamusse in Cassis, a slum area in Port Louis, the Mauritian capital.
I wanted to find out what had happened to the Chagossians, the descendants of African slaves and indentured Indian labourers, forced out of their home in the Chagos islands (part of the British Indian Ocean Territory) by the British authorities.
Between 1965 and 1973, they were dumped in Mauritius and the Seychelles so the US could set up a military base on Diego Garcia.
In 1982, the British government made a payment of 4 million in an attempt to buy off the islanders and assuage international condemnation. A financial package of a little over 2000 was paid to 1344 people in "full and final settlement of all claims with no admission of responsibility."
But what impact was the compensation having on the lives of the islanders and did it in any way make up for the loss of their homeland?
I spoke to a woman named Rita David. Barefoot and dressed in a tattered blue floral dress, she looked much older than her 35 years. As we talked she leant against the peeling, pink-painted front of her wood and corrugated iron shack looking tired and depressed.
"Life in Diego was easy," said Rita in a story that has been repeated to me countless times over the years by other Chagossian exiles. "In Diego, whether I was jobless or not, it made no difference because there was a lot to eat - we had fish, vegetables, coconut. Everything was there for you. Here in Mauritius from the beginning of the morning until last thing at night you have to dip your hand in your pocket."
She told me that she found it very difficult to bring up a family of five children. "There are no jobs in Mauritius and if you don't have a job, you don't have a living."
She added that things were considerably worse since her husband had recently deserted her and the children.
How was she coping financially? "Ah, that's where the problem is," she replied. "Before, I was getting a little social security because of my family but now that I have had part of my compensation they have cut it." She looked even more depressed. "I just have to try my best. What else can I do?"
The following day I visited another Chagossian camp at Roche Bois, another slum area of Port Louis. Conditions were even worse here. There were 20 one-room shacks in a quadrangle. The toilet was communal - a hole in the ground a little distance away from the settlement. It was just as well. The stench was overpowering.
Some of the older men squatted outside their shacks, drinking cheap rum and smoking cigarettes on credit from the local Chinese-owned store, while their wives and daughters did the washing and prepared the food.
I asked one of the men if he grew vegetables. He looked at me in disbelief, laughed and pointed to the ground. It was rock hard.
I visited Francois and Therese, a young couple living in a rented shack. They told me that most of the initial money they had received from the British government had been spent paying off debts to the loan sharks who had moved in once talk of compensation surfaced. They looked perplexed. They told me that they did not know what their future would be as their money was running out fast.
But the compensation package craftily put together by the foreign office has come back to haunt Britain. When the islanders signed the documents which gave them some much-needed money (although many state that they have never received any) they had no idea that they were also signing away their rights to return to their homeland.
It was the catalyst that brought their political struggle to life.
Olivier Bancoult, a Chagossian who observed the impact of the British governments action on his fellow exiles, set up the Chagos Refugee Group in 1983. He later forged links with a London-based legal team including Richard Gifford and Sir Sidney Kentridge, who first came to prominence when he was part of Nelson Mandelas defence team.
Since 2000 it has proved to be a formidable partnership achieving a series of victories in the High Court and the Court of Appeal.
While other Indian Ocean communities have benefited from economic growth, the Chagossian community has been left behind - their lives blighted by high unemployment, poor housing and education, and significant levels of alcohol and drug misuse. Predictably these things have taken their toll - only around 750 of the original 2000 islanders are still alive.
On Wednesday the Law Lords have to make a decision. Is it justifiable for British citizens to be removed from a British overseas territory without consultation and against their wishes, to be thrown into abject poverty in the name of the defence interests of Britain and the United States?
I know what my judgement would be. But then I'm not a Law Lord.
http://www.newstatesman.com:80/human-rights/2008/10/british-government-chagossians
Wednesday 22 October - House of Lords Judgement
18 October, 2008
The judgement of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Appeal will be delivered the House of Lords at 9.45am on Wednesday 22 October.
The Chagos Refugee Group will be present with a delegation, including Olivier Bancoult
While an earthquake occurred on October 16 in the region and the official start date of the cyclone season between 01 November and 15 May is approaching fast, we certainly hope for a positive outcome for the Chagossians .
I repeat an appeal by Rev. Mario Li Hing of CRG
Beneficiary's name: Chagos Refugees Group
Beneficiary's address: 62 Cassis Road, Port Louis, Mauritius
Beneficiary's bank: The State Bank of Mauritius Ltd
Bank address: 1 Queen Elizabeth II Avenue, Port Louis
Account number: 62030100077774
SWIFT Code: STCBMUMU
Should you need any further information please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thanking you for your precious collaboration.
Yours sincerely,
Rev. Mario Li Hing
Chaplain, Chagos Refugees Group
39B Royal Road
Eau Coule
Mauritius
Tel/Fax : +230 674-0155
Mobile : +230 251-2540
Email : mariolihing@hotmail.com; marioglihing@yahoo.com
Skype : mariolihing2302
Chagos Support Group Waiheke Island
The Law Lords are getting ready in October 2008
15 September, 2008
I have called the assistance of a Waiheke Island resident, who can teach me in no time to get the website up to speed.
As you know we expect the verdict by the UK House of Lords in October, next month
I promise myself to have the site alive and kicking by that time, as the event will be critical for the future of the Chagossians. It will be be either a ticket to return, or keep on the fight and make sure that justice will be done in the end.
Martini Gotje
Chagos Support Group Waiheke Island
To Our Friends
10 July, 2008
I am in the process of updating and correcting the website.
The resumption of news and development will come soon
Martini Gotje
Chagos Support Group Waiheke Island
To Our Friends And Partners
2nd April
We would like to solicit your help to the ongoing struggle of the
Chagossians. As you may be aware the Court of Appeal delivered a
landmark ruling on 23 May 2007 in their favour giving them the right
to go back to their homeland. Two similar rulings were given on 03
November 2000 and 11 May 2006 by the High Court of London. The British
has appealed to the House of Lords for the last time and the hearing
has been set for 30 June to 04 July 2008.
In this context, a delegation of 20+ elderly Chagossians comprising
both men and women, will travel to London as they did for the three
previous cases. We believe it is essential that they be physically
present to bear witness of their hardship and suffering for more than
40 years and express their yearning for justice to be done. Moreover
they are aware that their future is at stake and they want to show
that they are more than determined to claim their fundamental rights.
Expenses will be as follows:
Cost of air ticket Mauritius-London-Mauritius per person 598 Food & Accommodation for 1 week per person ( 60 x 7 days) 420 Total per person: 1,018
We are making an appeal to your generosity for sponsorship in order to
carry out our endeavour. Any financial contribution will be much
appreciated and will facilitate their presence in London. Their bank
details are:
Beneficiary's name: Chagos Refugees Group
Beneficiary's address: 62 Cassis Road, Port Louis, Mauritius
Beneficiary's bank: The State Bank of Mauritius Ltd
Bank address: 1 Queen Elizabeth II Avenue, Port Louis
Account number: 62030100077774
SWIFT Code: STCBMUMU
Should you need any further information please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thanking you for your precious collaboration.
Yours sincerely,
Rev. Mario Li Hing
Chaplain, Chagos Refugees Group
39B Royal Road
Eau Coule
Mauritius
Tel/Fax : +230 674-0155
Mobile : +230 251-2540
Email : mariolihing@hotmail.com; marioglihing@yahoo.com
Skype : mariolihing2302
Let The Return Campaign
2nd April
The UK Chagos Support Association will launch their exiting new campaign "Let Them Return" on Tuesday April 8 at the House of Lords.
This is 63 days before the House of Lords hears the latest and hopefully last UK government appeal on June 30 and the launch of the report on the feasibility of return and resettlement on the outer islands, which was commissioned by UK Chagos Support Association.
Olivier Bancoult will be attending this important day
Let The Return Campaign
2nd April
The UK Chagos Support Association will launch their exiting new campaign "Let Them Return" on Tuesday April 8 at the House of Lords.
This is 63 days before the House of Lords hears the latest and hopefully last UK government appeal on June 30 and the launch of the report on the feasibility of return and resettlement on the outer islands, which was commissioned by UK Chagos Support Association.
Olivier Bancoult will be attending this important day
What happened to ... Diego Garcia?
The Observer, 30th March, 2008
This article appeared in the Observer on Sunday March 30 2008 on p24 of the News section. It was last updated at 00:00 on March 30 2008.
Last month The Observer carried a claim from a United Nations source that the British Pacific territory of Diego Garcia has been used to house prisoners subjected to extraordinary rendition by America. Manfred Nowak, the UN special rapporteur on torture, said several detainees had told him they had been held there before being transferred to secret detention centres elsewhere.
Last week the Foreign Office minister, Kim Howells, said in Parliament: 'We have received allegations about detainees being held on US ships stationed outside the three-mile territorial waters of Diego Garcia from a number of interested non-governmental organisations, including Amnesty International and Reprieve [a campaign for people sentenced to death].'
Howells said the government was prepared to look into claims that Diego Garcia, which is now a US naval base, had been used for extraordinary renditions. He added that his fellow Foreign Office minister, Lord Malloch-Brown, had contacted Nowak to encourage him 'to provide the government with any evidence he may have regarding these allegations'.
Nowak has offered to share his information - which was given on a confidential basis - if he can gain agreement from his sources.
Pete's Pictures
28th March, 2008
Pete:
Here are some pictures taken from our journey:
Musichana Voyage As Far As Male
Musichana At Peros Banhos
Musichana At Saloman
The New Statesman - Arrested In Diego Garcia
28th March, 2008
Sean Carey talks to Pete Bouquet about his arrest for entering the waters around Diego Garcia - the site of a key US military base.
Veteran human rights and environmental campaigners, Pete Bouquet, 59, and Jon Castle, 56, part of the People's Navy, were arrested in the waters around Diego Garcia, the largest and southernmost island in the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), on board their boat , Musichana, on the morning of Saturday, March 8.
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Poppy Begins Her Account of Cindik's Journey
27th March, 2008
Poppy has now made her recovery from the trpoical parasite 'Giardia' and is back to the writing. Read her account of Cindik's journey here. More great reading!
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Pete and Jon Return Home
24th March, 2008
Pete and Jon returned home to the UK on the 23rd of March. Both are well and have been catching up on their sleep! The first account of the Diego Garcia protest has been added to the Progress Page. It makes excellent reading!
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People's Navy Looking For Lawers
20th March, 2008
It is confirmed now that Jon and Pete will be flown to Singapore on Saturday. Later that night they fly on to the UK.
Although earlier in the week the Magistrate on Diego Farcia indicated a right of appeal, it appears from yesterday that Jon and Pete cannot do that.
Almost like discouraging them to do so. Of course there must be appeal possible.
After all the UK Government has done nothing else than appealing UK Court decisions that the Chagossians have a right to return.
We have agreed that first priority for Pete and Jon is to get back to the UK. Only there we can regroup and decide properly among all of us what the best next steps will be. Meanwhile if there is anybody out there who could shed light on the right of appeal in the UK, please let me know and i will pass the advice to Jon and Pete. Any good lawyers who are willing to take the case on are also very welcome.
The main focus of the campaign is to get the Chagossians back to their land. June 30 this year will be a milestone in their plight. The UK government makes its last stand in the House of Lords. It is crucial for the Chagossians they will win again and we will certainly mobilise behind to achieve this goal.
Please click here for background reading on Diego Garcia.
Make A Donation
18th March, 2008
We would like to make an appeal for Pete and Jon, who have funded
the Musichana-Chagos campaign out of their own pocket. They will be facing a number of costs in the coming months, including flights to the UK from
Singapore, lawyers fees and court costs. If you are interested in making a donation, we would be very grateful of your support. Please find below the bank details of the New Zealand Chagossian Support Group.
Account name: Chagossian Support Group Waiheke Island Bank: ANZ Branch: Waiheke Island Address: Cnr Oue St & Ocean View Road, Waiheke Island, New Zealand Account Number: 115351-0037094-011
An Email From Pete from Diego Garcia
17th March, 2008
Hi Just a quick line because they've allowed us access to the computers. But I'd better be quick! 1st of all - thanks to everyone for their support. We're both fine. It's been a bit weird - but apart from that ok. We've been held by the British side of things (thank god!) and they've looked after us ok. As you probably know we are bneing deported on Sat to Singapore - so should be back in UK early next week. I'll write a full update then. There's not much more to say at this stage and from here other than all the conversations I've been able to have with Martini. We can discuss how to continue from here - but it's worked out better than I thought it would..... Anyway...greetings from "paradise isle"....I'll tell you more when I'm free! Cheers Pete
Pete and Jon to be Deported
17th March, 2008
Pete and Jon will be deported to Singapore on Saturday. This will be the
most likely scenario according to Pete, who was allowed to use the Iridium
for the call. We tried to call back, but only got as far as the answer machine.
Jon is the only person to face the charges. He will not pay the fine, hence
the deportation and forfeiture of Musichana with everything in it.
He had pleaded non guilty and deposited an appeal. There is no appeal
possible in Chagos, so the case has to be followed on in the U.K.
The appeal will come in a year when the Chagossians face the biggest
challenge in their justice battle with the UK Government on June 30 when the
House of Lords start hearing the appeal of the UK government on the May 2007
victory for the Chagossians.
There are positive developments going on at the same time, as reported by
the UK Chagos Support Assiciation on their blogsite yesterday.
At the enquiry in January by the UK Foreign Affairs Committee on Overseas
terrtitories its chariman Mike Gapes told Olivier Bancoult: "As you know.
your islands have a particular history. We hope at some point they will also
have people resident there who can act as guardians of the environment."
It would be great if the Archipelagos could be granted special status, or
even better a marine reserve and the Chagossians are the Guardians in a
complete reversal.
Musichana to be forfeited
14th March, 2008
Martini has been in touch with Pete. Here he summarises what was discussed and comments on them:
Talked with Pete tonight. Both Jon and Pete are doing fine but there has been some developments. Jon was charged yesterday. Pete hasn't so far.
Jon is officially the Captain of Musichana and so far he has been singled out for violation of immigration laws.
The prosecutor is asking for a maximum, which is 6 months suspended prison, 3000 GBP fine and 200 GBP cost.
Jon has pleaded not guilty.
They need to pay within a week, otherwise they will get deported and the Musichana will be forfeited.
Our first stance is not to pay the fine.
In true style Jon gave them a lecture on the plight of the Chagossians, the rendition flights and the offensive nature of the base.
He finished his speech with "You better examine your conscience".
The Chagossian have to return to their rightful homelands and have to have a sustainable economy to base their lives on.
They are the rightful inhabitants of the islands.
We will see what will happen over the next days but bear in mind this is all done under British Law and whatever the outcome we will appeal.
I told Pete about the incredible support he and Jon has in the outside world and instead of some secret court case on Diego Garcia, the island of lies, deception and aggressive violent behaviour, the judgement on this have to be in the UK.
The time for secret activities on Diego Garcia is gone, we all have to have the duty to expose the Hypocracy of Diego Garcia.
Jon's Plea Discounted
13th March, 2008
Another communication from Anne, who spoke to Jon today:
Jon's been before the magistrate (apparently he was charged but not Pete - presumably as he was skippering the boat at the time?). He said it was a 'kangaroo court'. He pleaded not guilty on the basis that they commited a lesser crime (entering the territorial waters) to draw attention to a greater crime (Chagossians still in exile, Diego G being used as a US militiary base to commit various offences against human rights etc.). However, surprise, surprise, his plea was discounted.
The magistrate imposed the max fine of 3K and a 6 mth suspended jail sentence (apparently only valid there). He'll refuse to pay & they'll prob confiscate the boat and deport Jon and Pete in due course. He's not sure if he can appeal a sentence from a magistrate's court...
Both are OK and being looked after OK etc. The policeman looking after them attempts to ask any questions they have and will buy them phone cards tomorrow. They'll probably be there for a week or so and then may be flown out to Singapore.
Christian campaigners arrested after Diego Garcia protest
Report From The Independent Catholic News
13th March, 2008
British Quakers have expressed their support to the concerns of the two human rights campaigners arrested off Diego Garcia after protesting about the island's use in British and US military operations.
The men, Jon Castle, a Quaker from Devon, and Peter Bouquet, said they were motivated by the Quaker ideal that: "you should bear witness to a crime, even if you cannot stop it happening." They had sailed their boat, the Musichana, over 2000 miles to carry out their protest.
Foreign Secretary David Milliband admitted in February that the island had been used as a stopping point for the extraordinary rendition of two detainees.
Gillian Ashmore, Chief Executive Officer for the Quakers, said: "People matter. In the end human rights are about people being treated like people who matter. Quakers are concerned about abuses of power and acts which may amount to torture. Our Yearly Meeting has called on government to do all in its power to prevent the use of all forms of torture. We support the calls by British MPs and human rights groups for an independent inquiry into the use of Diego Garcia by the CIA."
Independent Catholic News 2008
Jon and Pete To Be Fined
12th March, 2008
The good news is Jon has been in contact with one of his friends, Anne, who is happy to report that both Jon and Pete are well and being looked after. However it looks like they will be fined under the UK law. Here is Anne's email to the People's Navy:
I'm an old friend of Jon's in Guernsey. Just thought you'd like to know he rang me yesterday (Tues 11 March) from the police station in Diego Garcia. He wanted some legal advice before being interviewed by the B.I.O.T. police, so I set it up for him to ring a friend of mine, who is a local lawyer.
He sounded absolutely fine and as always calm (no surprise there - when did you ever see Jon ruffled in a tense situation?!) He was using the phone at the station and said he and Pete were being held in an air conditioned cell in good conditions and were being allowed to seek legal advice before being interviewed and going before the magistrate. In order words following the normal UK legal procedure, that the British police would follow. When I first heard of the arrest, I had visions of them being held by the US Militiary police, complete with shackles and orange jump suits, but of course it is still a British island ...
They obviously won't deny anything - they deliberately went into the territorial waters of Diego Garcia and refused to turn back when commanded to do so. The max fine they could get is 3000 (which of course they won't pay), or confiscation of the boat/a period of imprisonment. They will appeal if they can, and that would be good because it would mean the appeal case will be held in the UK.
Apologies if you already know this, but thought I'd send it just in case it adds anything to your knowledge. Here is Guernsey we've got the local media on to it (with Jon being a Guernseyman and all that!). Good article in the Guardian. Thks for the link.
Keep up the good work
Here's to Jon and Pete and Sam
British rights activists arrested near Diego Garcia
Report From Malaysia Sun
12th March, 2008
Two British human rights campaigners have been arrested at sea off Diego Garcia - the Indian Ocean island that the British have leased to the US for controversial military activity.
Peter Bouquet and Jon Castle were arrested after protesting the military use of the island and the expulsion of its entire population by Britain in 1971, the Guardian newspaper reported Wednesday.
The two men are former captains of Greenpeace's Rainbow Warrior ship and veterans of environmental and human rights direct actions around the world, the paper said. They currently belong to a group called the People's Navy which campaigns for the restoration of the island - also known as Chagos - to its original inhabitants, many of whom were forcibly settled in Mauritius.
The Chagossians have carried on a decades-long campaign to be allowed to return to their homeland, which is now a US air base. Their case against the British government is currently pending in British courts.
In a statement before their arrest, Bouquet and Castle said they were also protesting against the recent use of Diego Garcia by the US for the transportation of prisoners being 'rendered... without regard to even the most basic and accepted concepts of justice'.
Diego Garcia, used by the US in the two wars against Iraq and the more recent war on terror, has become the subject of a fierce controversy in Britain over so-called 'torture flights'.
British Foreign Secretary David Miliband admitted last month that two American aircraft had used the island to transport terror prisoners - each had one prisoner on board who did not leave the plane.
British MPs and human rights groups last week demanded an independent inquiry into the use of Diego Garcia by the US Central Intelligence Agency for transporting alleged terrorists to prisons such as Guantanamo Bay where they may be tortured.
The Guardian said British Foreign Office Minister Lord Mark Malloch Brown has spoken to Manfred Novak, the UN's special investigator on torture, about the alleged use of Diego Garcia as a detention centre for holding US suspects.
Still No Word From Pete Or John
12th March, 2008
From Martini:
"No further news from Jon and Pete. I suggest to call or e-mail via the following to demand their release and the return of the Chagossians:
British Indian Ocean Territory Administration
Overseas Territories Directorate
Foreign & Commonwealth Office
King Charles Street
London, SW1A 2AH
Telephone: + 44 (0) 20 7008 2890 or 2691
Fax: + 44 (0) 20 7008 1589
Email: BIOT Admin
The phone has not been working, but i guess that is because of the weekend."
Arrest Story Now Makes National Press
11th March, 2008
Pete and Jon have been arrested off the coast of Diego Garcia yesterday. They were arrested for failing to comply with the orders of the authorities, though this was part of the strategy and has succeeded in bringing about further awareness of the Chagossian plight. Martini has said that although he has not spoken to them since their arrest they are both alive and well. For full coverage of the news, see The Guardian.
Here follows a translation from the Mauritian newspaper L'Express:
It was in the waters off Diego Garcia that Pete Bouquet and Jon Castle, two former "Greenpeace", were arrested.
"The goal of our trip is to bear witnesses of the crimes committed by English and American governments, and to raise awareness about the cause of Chagossian peole." Thus Pete Bouquet and Jon Castle describe the purpose of their trip , started at the end of last year.
Both alumni from association Greenpeace, who had left Malaysia for making photos and videos of the islands Peros Banhos and Salomon in order to show their state of neglect, were arrested. They were to continue their journey to Mauritius to hand over the documents to Olivier Bancoult, leader of the Chagos Refugee Group.
They were arrested for refusing to comply with orders of the authorities of Diego Garcia, where they are being held for questioning. In a message, brought on board their boat, Musichana, and for the authorities to Diego Garcia, they write: "We urge you, on behalf of humanity, to cease your activities inhumane."
Martini Gotje, a coordinator of the mission, says he is no longer in contact with the two detainees since their arrest. However, he said that a police officer told him that the two men are alive and well.
Musichana arrives at Diego Garcia
8th March, 2008
Martini:
Musichana is at Diego Garcia. On March 8, 06.36 GMT i received the last
phonecall from Pete. By then Musichana was close to the entrance, after
repeated warnings from Diego Garcia to get out of the restricted zone.
Police was on their way out. I have tried several times to contact Musichana
without any luck. At this stage i can't tell what or where, but have to
assume they are taken in and they have handed over their statement, which
explained their right and duty to protest in a strict non-violent way the
military activities of the base and demand the right of return of the
Chagossians as the legitimate inhabitants.
We encourage you to get in contact with the US Navy Support Facility and flooding them with enquiries about their wellbeing.
By Email: Email here
By Phone
NSF Departments DSN:
N1 - Admin 315-370-4112
N2 - Security 315-370-4600
N3 - Air Ops 315-370-3312
N4 - Supply 315-370-3520
N5 - Public Works 315-370-4500/4501/4541
N6 - I.T. Office 315-370-3020
N7 - Base Financial Office 315-370-4422
N8 - Weapons 315-370-3416
N9 - Harbor Ops. 315-370-4305
Musichana Arrives In Maldives!
14th February, 2008
After a great first half of the leg with good winds and a slower second half due to beclamed seas, Pete and Jon finally navigated their way to the Maldives and arrived on Valentine's Day, on schedule! Check out the Progress page to see their route.
Good News And Bad News
6th February, 2008
As this web developer rebuilds his computer, thus putting him out of action for a few weeks (my sincerest apologies) a lot has been developing. The good news is that Musichana is cracking along the Indian Ocean and is already past Sri Lanka. We receive regular updates via sat phone and Pete and Jon sound well. The bad news is that Cindik has really struggled down the Red Sea and, despite making good progress in the conditions, Poppy was taken ill and has had to return to the UK to see a specialist. This was not without its problems as Sam and Poppy made their way through a war-torn country to get Poppy to the airport. Still, the recent log reports from Sam make superb reading.
Musichana is Launched!
10th January, 2008
As we've been sitting comfortably over the Christmas period, stuffing ourselves with turkey and brussel sprouts, Pete, Sam, Jon and Poppy have been hard at work without rest.
Pete and Jon have finally prepped Musichana and launched her in the water yesterday. You can see pictures of her beautiful reservation and paint-job in the log. Meanwhile Sam and Poppy continue to make their way down the canal and into the Red Sea. Unfortunately we have not heard from Cindik for the last couple of weeks they are either unable to send us updates via SSB radio on the boat or they have not been able to find an internet cafe on their journey. We send them all our best wishes and hope that they have fair winds for 2008.
Sam and Poppy Are Bid Farewell By Marmaris Bay Cruisers
11th December, 2007
After being held in Marmaris due to bad weather, Sam and Poppy finally left the Marmaris Bay to begin the next leg of the journey. The boat had been prepped, provisions stored and they were ready to leave before some rather nasty southerlies and 40kn winds kicked up. Despite the dark skies that hung around after the storm Sam was seen off by all the Marmaris Yacht Marina staff and cruisers who have helped him prepare Cindik over the last month. He was also presented with a banner made by the kids of the marina cruisers. That morning Sam had made an emotional and heart-felt thanks on the VHF Net.
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Sam's Article For The New Statesman & Mauritian Times
10th December, 2007
In an email interview Sam explains to Dr Sean Carey the background to his trip: what inspired him to do it, how he went about building Cindik and what his aims of the trip are. It's very well written and is a great introduction to Sam, Cindik and what he hopes to achieve from this epic journey.
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Cindik Has A New Crew Member!
4th December, 2007
After weeks of preparing for a solo passage down the Red Sea, Poppy Currie has stepped up to the challenge and has agreed to join Sam.....all the way to the Maldives!
Poppy is a single, female solo sailor based in Netsel Marine but met Sam earlier this year in Malta. Since then Poppy had been keeping up to speed with Sam's preparations in Marmaris and finally decided to make the commitment last week after feeling compelled to do something proactive towards the Chagossian plight. Her forte is writing and she will be making a large contribution to the progress log.
Make no mistake, this next stage of the journey is a tough and lengthy one and for Poppy to dedicate her time and energy to these lengths is truly commendable. Well done, Poppy!
For a profile of Poppy in her own words please visit The Cast page.
New Flags For People's Navy!
3rd December, 2007
Over the last week Eve, of s/v 'Eve', has been working on three wonderful flags for the People's Navy. Two identical ones sport the People's Navy logo and were designed for Cindik and Musichana. The third is the official Chagossian national flag. Pictured below is Eve holding the Chagossian flag and Sam with the People's Navy flag.
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Cindik Kitted Out By Marmaris Tradesmen
2nd December, 2007
As part of the strong support Sam has been receiving from all at Marmaris Yacht Marina, raffle money was raised for Sam to buy a new solar panel. The panel will provide enough juice to keep his batteries topped up in order for him to send progress reports via SSB radio. The stainless steel frame was built by Demir Marine who built and installed it at cost, whilst the wiring was completed by Macit Yuksel, who also donated a regulator for the panel. Please see the Thanks page for further details as their help and assistance is greatly appreciated.
More Liveaboards Educated
1st December, 2007
This is one of the reasons why we set up the Virtual Navy: after the original screening of Stealing A Nation in Marmaris, we inspired one of the Virtual Navy members, Mike and Jo of s/v 'Hariette', to show the documentary in Kemer, where they are wintering. Kemer has a smaller liveaboard community but a turnout of 40 people must be considered a great success. Mike says: "After showing the film I asked for questions and there was complete silence! I think everyone was overwhelmed by the content of the documentary. Several people have come up to me since and thanked me for showing the film, and it has prompted people to think about, and talk about, not only the case of the Chagossians but how governments can and do ride roughshod over peoples rights if it suits them".
People's Navy Meets Olivier Bancoult, Rev Hing & John Pilger
28th November, 2007
Pete: Both Jon and I managed to get off our respective ships in time to meet up with Olivier Bancoult and Rev. Mario Li Hing (Regional Director of
the Scripture Union in Mauritius) in London. Olivier was in London for discussions with his legal team to review the current situation, and to look at the future options for the
Chagossian people in light of the UK Government's stubborn and unrealistic decision to continue with their appeal to the House of Lords. This process is costing the UK taxpayer millions of pounds.
We were able to discuss the plans for our forthcoming voyage fully with Olivier and bring him up to date with the schedules and latest developments. Needless to say, Olivier totally supports our efforts and is in full agreement that it is a positive contribution to their
struggle. One of his main concerns is the neglect of the Church buildings and graveyards where their ancestors are buried.
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| Olivier Bancoult and John Pilger meet with Pete (photograph by Pete Bouquet) |
We also called in to see John Pilger and to let him know about our plans. It was great to meet him and also to now have his support and approval - we must be doing something right!
If our voyage can contribute an effect of even one tenth of what Stealing a Nation achieved in raising awareness and publicising this injustice then I feel that our efforts will not have been in vain.
Jon and I will be on Musichana in the middle of December. The monsoon has started and we'll be on our way soon. We can't wait to get going.
People's Navy Goes International
28th November, 2007
As part of our strategy to spread the word of The People's Navy's cause we have now translated the entire site into French. French is particularly important to the Chagossian cause since the original Chagossian's language is a French variation. Of course it also means that the site is now more accessible than ever, so our thanks must go out to Francois Catz who turned the translation around so quickly. Watch this space for further translations coming soon.
One Hundred Pledge In A Week!
23rd November, 2007
Within just a week of launching the site, People's Navy has received over 100 pledges! They have poured in from around the world, from a farmer in Costa Rica to a UN spokesperson in Afghanistan. MEPs, doctors, lawers, landlubbers and children have all pledged. If you haven't yet pledged your support please visit the Pledge page.
Marmaris Yacht Marine Drop Charges
18th November, 2007
Following on from the success of the website launch and an explanation of Sam's quest, Marmaris Yacht Marina have announced that they will not be charging Sam marina fees! This is fantastic news and it means his budget can be better spent on technical services on Cindik. We would like to thank Nazli at the marina for her and her staff's huge support.
150 People Viewed Screening
17th November, 2007
As part of our push for the website launch we screened John Pilger's documentary, Stealing A Nation, to yachties in Marmaris Yacht Marina. We were expecting 10 people to turn up, so imagine our shock and surprise when almost ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY liveaboards came along for the screening! After the show we explained a bit about the site and what yachties can do to help the People's Navy. It was received with a lot of support.
Website Launched
15th November, 2007
Within a week of conception The People's Navy website went live. After coming up with the idea Sam, Liz and Jamie registered the URL, designed the site and got the basic website live. Not bad for a week's work!
Cindik, Musichana And The Chagossians
"Thank you for your recent email letting me know about the planned sailing expedition by Pete Bouquet and his son Sam to the Chagos Islands. It seems a wonderful idea and an excellent way to raise awareness of the history of the Islands and to highlight the issues facing the islanders. I have looked at the website and have been more than happy to pledge support for the project."
Glenys Kinnock, MEP, November 2007
This website has been created to follow two small boats on a voyage across the globe. Their quest is to raise awareness of the terrible injustices meted out, over the last 40 years, to the people of the Chagos archipelago.
Cindik Under Sail
At the beginning of December, 2007, Sam will be sailing his boat, Cindık (pronounced gin-dook) through the Red Sea, towards the Chagos Islands in the Indian Ocean. Sam will be joined by his father, Pete, the original skipper of the Rainbow Warrior, who will be sailing from Malaysia on his boat, Musichana.
Details of their voyage will be posted on this website regularly. Click on Progress for their current position and most recent log entry.
The story of the Chagossians is a sad and shameful one. If you are not familiar with it please click on Chagos for a summary. There is more detailed information on the internet via several of the links we have posted on this website.
We hope that this David and Goliath situation in which the Chagossians find themselves will arouse interest and compassion around the globe.
Musichana
Please join us:
If you own a boat, work on a boat or spend any time on sea-faring vessels please click here and join the Virtual People’s Navy.
If you can’t tell the bow from the stern but would like to pledge your support to the people of Chagos please click here.
“The main and overriding reason for using boats for peaceful protest is that we can get to places that others cannot. We can shine the spotlight on hidden and secret abuses. We can bear witness to injustices and get the message to the outside world. A boat arouses emotion and sympathy in the eyes of observers who have no preconceived ideas or prejudices. They identify with the struggles of those on board, who have the courage and ability to pit themselves against the elements.”
Pete Bouquet, June 2004
To read Pete's 'Mission Statement', please click here.
