Republic Seeks Extension for Expert Review of President René Letter in Terrorism Trial
The prosecution in the ongoing terrorism trial involving Mukesh Valabhji has filed an application requesting an extension of proceedings in order to allow for expert analysis of a controversial letter attributed to former President France-Albert René.
The document in question—a photocopy of a purported letter allegedly authorising Valabhji to store a backup armoury for the Seychelles People’s Defence Forces (SPDF) at his Morne Blanc residence—was submitted as key exculpatory evidence by the defence earlier this year.
Last month, the letter was dispatched to a forensic laboratory in North London, United Kingdom, for further analysis. Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the laboratory, but the extension request suggests that results are still pending and may prove pivotal in the “trial within a trial” over the letter’s admissibility.
While the defence has maintained that the letter justifies Valabhji’s possession of the weapons found at his property, the prosecution has challenged its authenticity, raising concerns over the timing of its disclosure, lack of original documentation, and forensic inconsistencies.
Chief Justice Rony Govinden had earlier ruled the letter inadmissible in the main trial, but the ongoing admissibility hearing—separate from the broader terrorism charges—may reopen discussions should credible evidence support the letter’s validity.
The court is expected to rule on the extension request later this month.
