Sheikh’s Palace Tops it All
An exception from the planning laws
The palace being built by Abu Dhabi ruler Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan is taking shape quickly at the top of La Misere. It is already three stories high and rising. We cannot say how high or how large the structure will be. Such details are not revealed for the public by the planning authorities, although they should be. But in the case of the palace, there was no application in the planning register anyway, when we checked.
At the top of La Misere, it will be highest building in Seychelles. But what is more remarkable already is that the Sheikh’s palace will dominate the skyline. This is where there is a problem. It has been a rule up to now that no building would rise above the skyline and planning applications have been refused in the past on that basis. In fact, in one notable case, another builder was refused building permission for another spot at La Misere on those grounds.
The question for every Seychellois is whether the Sheikh should have the privilege of re-writing the laws, or becoming an exception to the law in every case that concerns him. The question has arisen on the issue of trade tax declarations and payment of import dues on the materials brought in for the palace, and on removal of imports from his plane at the airport.
Obviously, the Sheikh gets these privileges because of his money. But what money he has given to Seychelles or to individuals should not allow him to rise above the law. Sovereignty cannot be for sale.
Source: Regar 1-15-10