VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Assomption Island inquiry officially commenced yesterday at the Court of Appeal, Palais de Justice, Ile du Port, with the first testimonies being heard before the Commission of Inquiry. The commission, established by President Patrick Herminie under the Commissions of Inquiry Act, is conducting a full and impartial investigation into the lease and development of a luxury hotel on Assomption Island involving the government, the Islands Development Company, and Ocean Breeze International Limited.
This inquiry matters significantly for ordinary Seychellois as it addresses the stewardship of national assets and environmental protection. Assomption Island, part of the Aldabra Group and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, represents irreplaceable natural heritage. The investigation will determine whether proper procedures were followed in leasing the island and whether environmental safeguards were adequately implemented during construction.
Angela Servina, chief executive of the Seychelles Planning Authority, was among the first witnesses to testify. She stated that SPA was satisfied with construction work carried out so far on the luxury tourism project, despite a stop notice issued on November 17, 2025, following a prohibition notice from the Department of Environment. The prohibition notice cited biodiversity concerns, specifically the failure by Ocean Breeze International Limited to appoint biodiversity personnel to monitor environmental impacts during construction. Ms Servina explained that when SPA’s assessment team conducted site visits, they were satisfied that the work implemented was in line with the approved plan.
Assomption Island was originally leased to the Islands Development Company in 2006 for 99 years. In 2016, IDC granted a 70-year sublease to Ocean Breeze Investments Ltd. The commission of inquiry was established to investigate all aspects of the project, including contractual legality, environmental compliance, and potential issues of corruption, interference, and conflicts of interest. The inquiry represents a significant development in Seychelles’ approach to transparency in major economic projects.
The hearings, which are continuing today, will examine matters including the registration of leases and sub-leases concerning Assomption Island, as well as incorporation records of Urbacon Company Ltd. Representatives from Ocean Breeze International Limited, IDC, Green Island Construction Company, and other stakeholders are expected to participate virtually. The commission aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the project’s governance and environmental stewardship.
Justice Mathilda Twomey is presiding over the inquiry, assisted by Dr Joelle Barnes as secretary to the Commission.
📷 Image source: Office of the President — statehouse.gov.sc
