Opposition Leader Moumou Marks Independence Day With Call to Defend Democracy
VICTORIA, Seychelles — Leader of the Seychelles People’s National Movement (SPNM) Robert Moumou used his National Day message to warn that Seychelles’ sovereignty and democracy cannot be taken for granted, and must be actively defended by every citizen. Mr Moumou said the country’s institutions and the individuals entrusted to protect democracy had, in some instances, become its greatest threat.
Citing Circular No. 8 as a recent example, the opposition leader said the directive illustrated a worrying trend towards political interference, administrative intimidation and the erosion of constitutional rights. He argued that when a directive seeks to silence or suppress legitimate participation, especially within civil society and the public service, it does not uphold democracy but undermines it.
Mr Moumou added that public institutions should reflect the will of the people, not the whim of a few, and that sovereignty is defended not only against foreign threats but also against internal manipulation. He called on Seychellois to be free, to be proud, and to have the courage to stand up for future generations. ‘Let the echoes of our past remind us of where we came from and to aspire to maintain a Seychelles with a high standard of living for every Seychellois,’ he said. ‘May God bless Seychelles and all its people.’
