VICTORIA, Seychelles — Former President Ramkalawan security concern has been raised after the Seychelles Defence Forces issued an order instructing his bodyguards to surrender their personal weapons to SDF Headquarters. The directive was received on Monday, January 12, 2026, and applied to all security officers assigned to Mr Ramkalawan. According to a communiqué from the Office of the former president, the order was duly followed, with all weapons returned as instructed.
This development carries significant implications for the security of former heads of state in Seychelles. Under Statutory Instrument 48 of 2018, which governs Presidential Emoluments, a former president is entitled to four security personnel at all times. In practice, this has always meant armed officers. All former presidents have historically received armed protection, including President Faure when he left office, and the same applied to former President James Michel. The removal of weapons from these officers raises questions about the protection afforded to former leaders.
Mr Ramkalawan described the order as unreasonable, warning that it carries serious implications for his personal safety. “He sees this as an attempt to further denigrate his office, but even more importantly, as a personal threat to his well-being,” the communiqué stated. The former president questioned the motive behind the directive, asking what plans may be afoot regarding his family’s safety.
The Ramkalawan security concern highlights the delicate balance between current and former administrations in Seychelles. The precedent of providing armed security to former presidents has been established over decades, reflecting both the potential risks faced by former leaders and the dignity accorded to the office of the presidency. Any deviation from this established practice requires careful explanation to ensure public confidence in the institutional arrangements governing the presidency.
Mr Ramkalawan has called on President Patrick Herminie to intervene, urging him to exercise reasonableness and respect the courtesy extended to former presidents. The situation remains under review, with senior defence officials declining to comment on the specific circumstances. Lieutenant Colonel Archil Mondon, public relations officer of the SDF, explained that SI 48 of 2018 entitles former presidents to a chauffeur-driven vehicle and four security personnel, though he was not aware of the details surrounding this particular case.
The matter is expected to be resolved through dialogue between the relevant authorities.
📷 Image source: Office of the President — statehouse.gov.sc
