VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Seychellois people learned with deep sadness on the morning of Wednesday July 23, 2025, of the death of Jérémie Émile Patrick Bonnelame, an emblematic figure in the politics and diplomacy of Seychelles. His wife, Gabrielle Bonnelame, shared her immense grief, expressing the pain of the loss. ‘He was a man loved and appreciated by his family, his colleagues and his friends. It is too hard for me to talk to you about this very special man,’ she said.
Mr Bonnelame began his career as a priest at the age of 26, having received holy orders on June 28, 1964, before reorienting himself to other fields. In April 2008, he was also appointed a member of a constitutional review commission, contributing to the governance of the nation. He was the second Seychellois to occupy the position of ambassador and the very first Seychellois ambassador to India in 1993.
Personalities from across the political spectrum paid tribute to Mr Bonnelame, describing him as a great servant of the State, a founding initiative in climate risk management, and a memory of a dear friend, a fervent patriot, an honest statesman and a man of integrity. The United Seychelles party also extended its condolences to the family, on behalf of the party and all its members, and expressed its deepest sympathy to the bereaved.
