A letter written on 16th July, 2007, by Mr. Mathew A. Servina President of CEFRAD worth putting to the attention of our readers:

CENTRE FOR RIGHTS & DEVELOPMENT

Centre Pour le Droit et le Développement

P.O. Box 233, Victoria, Seychelles Islands

Ebrahim Building, Room N0: 2, Francis Rachel Street, Victoria

Tel : (+248) 768028 -  e-mail : cefrad@seychelles.sc

Monday 16th July 2007

This letter is addressed to:

The President & Government, Republic of Seychelles

Religious Organisations

National Media

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Respectful greetings to you all,

Subject: National Engagement for Peace/Security &Poverty Eradication

The last GCAP activity in Seychelles for 2006 took place on 30th October, ending with a civil society call for the development of a national platform or forum for citizens’ dialogue on positive peace and genuine reconciliation for greater national unity, harmony, security and stability. The Call was conveyed to Government, religious organizations and national media on the occasion of International Human Rights Day 2006. State media was unwilling to share that message with the Seychellois Nation. Three weeks later the head of our State and government invited the Nation to pull TOGETHER for the Love of Seychelles.

One document accompanying this letter lays down the fundamental condition for the development of a citizen’s platform through national engagement and commitment to peace, human security and poverty eradication. It is only with love, respect and support for one another, for all citizens of this country, and for all humanity, that we can seriously demonstrate conviction and commitment to our national theme for 2007 and beyond. The Preamble to the Seychelles Constitution, supported by Article 40 (f) makes this very clear to all who want to manifest real love for this country and nation.

Although in the past there have been too many instances when government and religious leaders, as well as the State media, have ignored invitations to support positive initiatives from CEFRAD and other civil society organizations, there have also been certain occasions when public functionaries and religious personnel have given their cooperation and practical encouragement. We are certainly most grateful. Here we need to specially mention the excellent cooperation we have so far received from ministers responsible for Education and Social Affairs.

This letter is an appeal for demonstration of humility and leadership example from State and religious leaders, as well as from section of the media that is owned by the People of Seychelles. With regard to Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation (SBC), established

under an Act of Parliament which states its function ‘to provide broadcasting services for disseminating information, education and entertainment’. In performing such functions it is required to:

 “ensure that its programmes are of generally high standard; cover   a wide range of subjects and appeal to the needs and tastes and serve the best interest of the general public”;

“ensure that news, news features, current affairs and its  programmes are presented impartially, accurately and with  due regard to the public interest”.

Aforementioned requirement is very much in line with the kind of cooperation being requested by CEFRAD and other non-State partners. Similar cooperation is also expected from private media. We therefore look forward to an equality partnership as basis for national commitment to the Love of Seychelles and Humanity.       

Yours with respect,

Mathew A. Servina

President CEFRAD

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