The State of the Nation address has put paid to the ongoing
debate on national reconciliation. The President didn’t even mention it once during
his hour long speech. Instead the head of state made an emphatic call for
national unity. Many would probably think that there is no difference between
the two they could not be more wrong. President Michel just wants the nation to
forgive and forget, without having to say sorry for past mistakes. This is a
tall order indeed.
The President also stated that we need to bring in
democratisation, which is the process of putting the country under the control
of its citizens by allowing them to participate in government or
decision-making processes in a free and equal way – he will do that by amending
the Constitution and enacting new laws to do away with old legislation that is
holding back our democracy. This statement is hollow in all sense of the word
having just enacted the POA; a piece of legislation that has taken away our
freedom.
The President spoke lengthily about the need for Seychellois
to work to take jobs that are going to foreigners. All the evidence points in a
different direction many foreigners are recruited to fill positions which have never
been advertised locally. The recruitment is done overseas, solely. The Australians
at Customs is a case in point. And the Irish in the security forces is another.
The President provided us with proof if it was ever needed
that he has given up the fight against corruption. During his hour long speech the
President failed to tackle this most destructive element in society. Corruption
is now widespread in all sphere of government. The cost of living is up because
of corruption, which is causing severe hardship in many households in the
country. Parents are finding it hard to put food on the table for their
children. The President has also made a call to restrict social security benefits
to the needy. This is going to make life harder for many people, especially the
genuinely needy.
We were told that we have over 400 million dollars (USD) in Central
Bank reserve, which represent 4½ months of importation, not even a word on our
external debt was said, which would have given the people a good idea of the real
state of the nation.
The people were called upon to take personal responsibility
for their lives and wellbeing. They were told that they need to work to pay for
their own house and that they should not depend on government for everything.
This is the same government that has misled the people into believing that they
can depend on the ruling party to do everything for them from the cradle to the
grave, philosophy. It is going to be hard to change the mindset of the people they
have brainwashed for thirty seven long years.
The head of state
celebrated the fact that Seychelles is well rated by many international
agencies. However, when it so happens that Seychelles is not rated favourably
by an international agency, the President accused them of not knowing
Seychelles and that they are sitting in offices far away and judging us.
President Michel is prepared to take the good, but frustrated over our
shortcomings.
The President rejoiced in his own glory and painted a
picture that exist only in the minds of the Executive. The reality is totally
different out there. The sooner we accept our true state of the nation it will
be better for all of us. We can then start working on our weaknesses going
forward together as one nation. Wishful thinking!
