(Posted 22nd March 2025)
Seychelles election campaigning for the 2025 elections has intensified as more Presidential Candidates throw their hats into the ring. Many collaborators have forwarded screen shots of recent discussions on social media that has raised concerns about Seychelles’ legal process, and its potential impact on our strong partnership with the UAE. Specifically, claims have surfaced suggesting that individuals linked to past Truth, Reconciliation, and National Unity Commission (TRNUC) related cases are evading justice to preserve this relationship.
Collaborators on the islands all seem to suggest that it is important to address this with clarity and respect. The UAE is a nation built on the rule of law, and it would not provide refuge to anyone facing legitimate legal proceedings if a formal request were made. Suggesting otherwise undermines the strong ties between the two nations (UAE & Seychelles).
It is known that Seychelles and the UAE enjoy a close and longstanding relationship, reflected in frequent high-level visits, including those by President Wavel Ramkalawan. The UAE remains a key investor in Seychelles, with continued interest in development of Seychelles. It is believed that strengthening the island’s legal system should not be seen as a risk to this existing partnership, but rather as a reaffirmation of the Seychelles and the UAE’s shared commitment to justice and good governance.
The TRNUC was established with the clear understanding that victims of the past injustices deserve recognition and reparations. It was spelled out by some in the race for the Presidency that Seychelles as a nation had a moral and legal responsibility to its people to adopt the TRNUC Report and to implement the recommendations. Ignoring the call for compensation recommendations would be a betrayal of the very purpose of the TRNUC and the commitment made to reconciliation. The same can be said about those listed as perpetrators if Seychelles is serious about justice, closure and healing.
Privately those who felt aggrieved by the Government pursued and won compensation from the State because they believed they had a claim. “Two of the 2025 Presidential Candidates Wavel Ramkalawan (Incumbent Candidate) and Alain St.Ange have set a precedence by winning damages from the State following their court cases. If leaders can seek redress for themselves, then victims of the past injustices must also be given what they are owed” said a regular collaborator from Seychelles to ATCNews.
