(Posted 12th March 2025)
An recent post on ‘Lalyans Nouvo Sesel‘ FaceBook page by a ruling party political activist shocked many readers when he asked where would the State get the millions needed for compensation for those who suffered in the era covered in the TRNUC report
The ‘Truth, Reconciliation, and National Unity Commission (TRNUC)‘ was established with the clear understanding that victims of past injustices deserve recognition and reparations. **Seychelles, as a nation, has a moral and legal responsibility to its people.** Ignoring the compensation recommendations simply because they present financial challenges would be a betrayal of the very purpose of the TRNUC and the commitment made to reconciliation.
The President of that era Danny Faure, and then Leader of the Opposition Wavel Ramkalawan, were both instrumental in moving TRNUC forward and the report published must now be adopted in full.
Why Seychelles Must Honour the Compensation Payouts
1. It Is the Only Way to Move Forward
True national unity cannot be achieved if victims are ignored. Compensation is not just about money—it is about **justice, closure, and healing**. Without it, the wounds of the past remain open, fostering resentment and division. If Seychelles truly seeks national reconciliation, it must act on its promises.
2. Political Leaders Acknowledge Compensation as a Legitimate Remedy
Both Alain St. Ange and President Wavel Ramkalawan pursued and won compensation from the State when they believed they had a claim. This sets a precedent—if leaders can seek redress for themselves, then the victims of past injustices must also be given what they are owed. To deny victims now would be hypocritical and unjust.
3. The Government Spends Heavily on Extravagant Expenses
It is unacceptable for the State to claim financial hardship while continuing to **spend lavishly on ministerial allowances, excessive travel, and other non-essential expenditures**. A government that can afford such luxuries can and must find the means to honour its obligations to its people.
How Seychelles Can Fund the Compensation
1. Reallocate Excessive Government Expenditures
– Reduce extravagant **ministerial allowances** and perks.
– Cut back on **non-essential foreign trips** and excessive spending in government departments.
– Conduct a **financial audit** to redirect wasteful expenditures toward funding compensation.
2. Phase the Payouts Over Time
– Instead of a lump sum, compensation can be **structured over multiple years**, easing the financial burden while ensuring justice is served.
3. Seek International Support & Partnerships
– Approach **international organizations, NGOs, and friendly nations** to support the compensation process. Many countries and institutions support reconciliation efforts globally.
4. Introduce a Special National Reconciliation Fund
– Establish a **dedicated fund** where contributions from the government, private sector, and even international donors can be pooled to finance the payouts.
5. Leverage Seychelles’ Tourism and Investment Revenue
– A small percentage of **tourism revenue or foreign investment** could be directed toward reconciliation and compensation efforts without disrupting the economy.
Conclusion
Seychelles **cannot run from its past**. The TRNUC’s recommendations must be honoured because the country **made a promise to its people**—a promise of justice, reconciliation, and closure. It is not a question of whether Seychelles can afford it, but rather a question of **whether it has the will to do what is right**. The country must prove that it values justice for all, not just for its leaders, and that reconciliation is more than just words.
