Editorial - Ansanm Pou Lanmour Sesel

EDITORIAL

Ansanm pou lanmour Sesel!

The theme for 2007 has been aptly chosen by the Head of State and it is generally endorsed by everyone I have come across so far. We, at Le Nouveau Seychelles Weekly, will play our part to catch the gauntlet thrown at us by the President of the Republic. Every one must strive “pou lanmour Sesel,” all 82,000 of us. All must be included in the drive for the love of our country and people. This is the only way “Seychelles Incorporated” will move forward smoothly. The fragmentation and hatred of the past must not be extended into 2007.

We have slipped into 2007, quietly, albeit with adverse weather conditions. The ducks are certainly not complaining and generally everyone is happy with the excess water coming their way. I hope that the bowsers will stay off the secondary roads during the rest of the year. The signs are good at this early stage of the year. The five star hotels are apparently full. The Cascade Bridge is under repair and it is expected to be ready before the end of the year. However, our difficulties are far from over.

The shortages of the past must be tackled with honesty not excuses. The queue for building material is becoming more acute and must be tackled head-on. Devaluation is slowly but surely creeping in, it is a fact; let us not sweep it under the carpet. The judiciary must shape up and polish their act to face up to the challenges of 2007. Corruption is rife and the government must not hesitate to swiftly set up an anti-corruption commission as a deterrent. Nepotism can no longer be encouraged. It must be immediately eliminated. No one is above the law and the Rule of Law must be respected at all times.

Further economic reform promised over the past few years must now be implemented without hesitation and further delay. Procrastination has run its course and actions speak louder than words. 2007 must end on a high note, calmly and peacefully. Mr. Rene must refrain from interfering in the day to day running of government, his past contribution is appreciated by all, it is time for him to enjoy his retirement. He has the blessing of all the Citizens.

It time for President James Michel to meet with the Leader of the Opposition to charter a new course for 2007 and beyond. Partisan politics must be a thing of the past and President Michel should really be the President of all Seychellois and not only the SPPF.

The virtues of democratic principle must be fully embraced. “POU LANMOUR SESEL” let us rise above our petty political differences. The National Interest must come first always! I have a dream …