On 19 December the Chagossian people lost one of the most powerful voices for their struggle, as Rita Bancoult passed away. Her funeral took place on the 22 December with family, friends and fellow campaigners. Aged 91, Madame Bancoult had been campaigning for the community's right to return to their homeland for decades. She also pressed the Mauritian and UK Government to do more to help Chagossians suffering in exile. Born in Peros Banhos in 1925, Rita Bancoult left her hom