OPPOSITION CONDEMNS UNCONSTITUTIONAL BILL

The Leader of the Opposition, Wavel Ramkalawan, has accused the Speaker of the National Assembly of double standard. Ramkalawan was speaking during the debate in the National Assembly on a Bill brought by the Government to modify the National Assembly Members’ Emoluments Act.

Ramkalawan said the Speaker so far has been treating the SPPF members differently than members from the opposition. Hence, it is difficult to see how the provision of the new act would be implemented in a fair and impartial manner. 

Ramkalawan, however, warned that if the government continues to introduce new legislations designed solely to pin the opposition against the wall, then the government would have to live with the consequences. He reminded the government of the expression “the straw that broke the camel’s back”.

Hon. Frank Elizabeth (DP) also told members that they should bear in mind that  if Seychelles enjoys political stability today it is due to the cooperative stance taken by the opposition. He said that it is this political stability that has resulted in unprecedented investments in our country in the tourism sector. He went on to warn, however, that the government should acknowledge the positive role played by the opposition to maintain our political stability. But the Bill  before the Assembly threatens this stability, he warned.

The public reaction to the live radio broadcast by the SBC of the debate was generally positive and the majority has urged SBC to continue to broadcast the Tuesday sittings live.

The Assembly then adjourned at 6.00pm after the majority SPPF members to a man or woman voted for the Bill whilst all the opposition members voted against it.

The National Assembly will resume its next sitting on the 11th September 2007.