Electoral Commission and Observers Declare Ballot Printing Process a Success
VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Chief Electoral Commissioner, Manuela Amesbury, has confirmed that all procedures relating to the printing of ballot papers for the upcoming National Assembly and Presidential elections have been completed successfully. A team of observers representing various political parties as well as independent candidates were present throughout the process to ensure every step was transparent and credible.
Mrs Amesbury explained there are five pallets — two for the National Assembly elections, two for the Presidential election, and one pallet containing envelopes for special stations, larger envelopes for the sorting process, and the Braille folders. The pallets together weigh approximately 400kg, with each pallet containing 44 to 45 boxes, sealed with foil, serialised, and fully documented.
Patrick Diess of Laliberte stated the September 4 packing was an important day. ‘All ballot papers for both the Presidential and National Assembly elections, including the Braille folders, were packed. We are satisfied with the process, which was conducted with professionalism and transparency.’ The SUM representative Ckelly Gaizka Ravaovison said ‘everything went smoothly, without any hiccups.’ Estaniella Sharon Radegonde (SPNM), Noel De La Fontaine, Wilson Joseph (United Seychelles), Florry Larue, Vivian Payette (LDS) and Yvon Esther all echoed similar sentiments. ‘After five days of work, we are satisfied with the outcome. The print house used security features that cannot be copied,’ Payette said. ‘Each agent received a copy of the seals placed on the pallets. Emirates is now collecting the pallets for the 48-hour cooling period,’ Mrs Amesbury confirmed.
