Letters to the Editor

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Lekel ki pe anmenn drog dan valiz diplomatic?

Sir -Who is bringing drugs in diplomatic bags? This is the question that is being asked by everyone in Seychelles in 2007. Last month (December) President Michel visited Reunion Island; according to State House he was there to encourage and to seek out potential investors for the local economy. During that visit an article was published in one of the newspapers there, namely, ‘Journal de l’Ile de la Reunion’.

According to the article drugs (illicit narcotic) is entering and living Seychelles through diplomatic mails. We are all hoping that this story has no basis to it, because if this allegation being directed at our government is true - it will destroy completely whatever little was left of our credibility aboard. The reputation of Seychelles is now tarnished further and probably beyond repair with this fresh accusation. It is for this reason that the government of President Michel must act without delay to clear the good name of the Seychellois people.

Observers are baffled by the silence being maintained by the Government so far on this issue. It is being said that the Minister responsible for Foreign Affairs should be out there defending our corner. It is also being said that “The silence can only be interpreted as guilt”. A statement on this matter is now badly overdue, this why the President must now act, personally, taking matters up into his own hands with his French counterpart and the authorities in Reunion Island. This is too grave and sensitive an issue to brush under the already bulging carpet. At this stage the citizens in whose name they act is owed at least a reaction on the matter from State House, if not a complete explanation. Will our elected representatives deliver, time will surely tell! Actions always speak louder than mere vocal utterances.

(A very concerned citizen)

‘Pye Sed’ at 100/-

Sir, being a reader of your newspaper, I would be grateful if you could dedicate some space including possibly front page in your next issue to analyze the effect of selling ‘Pye Cedre’ at 100/-.

From what I gather, very poor families earning a mere 2500/- per month have to scrutinize their budget to either rent a car or pick- up for up to 500/- in order to cope with this traditional most religious yearly festival. What a shame!!!

Someone who wants to come closer to our Christian belief had to sacrifice himself like this. It reminds us in communist China whereby one goes to jail for believing in Jesus!! In Seychelles one will go to jail for being in possession of a natural small tree that encourages unity in all Christian and non Christian families…

However processing fee of 10/- should apply for any size of Christmas tree.

Distribution of the trees should be carried out in all districts to minimize transportation costs.

All costs should be borne by Social Security Division.

I know that your sophisticated staff will have more to add and I look forward to read something interesting in your next issue

A concerned citizen

Editor’s note: This letter reached us after our last Issue of 2006. However we feel that it is still relevant.