Tribute paid to late Raymond d’Unienville for his contribution to Mauritius’ legal history

In recognition of the exceptional contribution of late jurist and historian, Me Raymond d’Unienville, to the preservation and advancement of Mauritius’ legal heritage, a tribute ceremony was held, yesterday, at the New Supreme Court in Port Louis.

The Minister of Housing and Lands, Mr Shakeel Mohamed; the Chief Justice, Mrs Rehana Bibi Mungly-Gulbul; and the President of the Bar Council of Mauritius, Me Antoine Domingue, were present.

In his address on the occasion, Minister Mohamed highlighted the longstanding and distinguished service of Me d’Unienville to the legal profession. He emphasised that his life and legacy continue to serve as a source of inspiration for younger members of the legal community, as well as for individuals committed to research, public service, and the safeguarding of the country’s legal and historical heritage.

Mrs Mungly-Gulbul dwelt on his professional journey and highlighted his enduring commitment to the legal profession. She emphasised that Me d’Unienville has always emphasised the importance of safeguarding the independence of the bar and strengthening the institutional framework for governing the legal profession. She further underlined his advocacy for reforms aimed at modernising the legal framework with regard to the bar association and urged greater participation of the younger members of the profession.

As for Me Domingue, he underlined that the role of late Me d’Unienville as former President of the Bar and senior member of the legal profession has been instrumental in strengthening legal standards and promoting the values of justice and rule of law.

Me Raymond d’Unienville, born in 1932, was a distinguished Mauritian lawyer, historian, and senior figure of the legal profession. He was called to the bar in 1956 and practised for nearly seven decades, earning the title of Queen’s Counsel in 1987 (later King’s Counsel).

Me d’Unienville played an important role in public and professional life, serving as President of the Mauritius Bar Association (2016) and earlier as the Deputy Mayor of Port Louis in 1969.

In addition to his legal career, he contributed significantly to historical research in Mauritius, particularly through his landmark publication on the development of civil law in Mauritius, L’évolution du droit civil à l’île Maurice (1721–1968) and his involvement in the Société de l’Histoire de l’Île Maurice.

His work and dedication were also recognised at the highest levels. He was attributed with the title of Chevalier des Palmes académiques by France, while the Mauritian state honoured him as Grand Officer of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean.

Me d’Unienville passed away on 17 August 2025 at the age of 93 years old.

27 March 2026

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