VICTORIA, Seychelles — Leaders in the National Assembly have delivered sharply divided views on the 2026 budget direction, with opposition leader Hon. Bernard Georges criticising the proposed R11.8 billion budget as a welfare budget that promotes dependency rather than productivity. Hon. Georges delivered his response to the budget, which represents an increase of R458.2 million or 4 percent compared to the revised 2025 midyear budget.
Hon. Georges argued that the United Seychelles administration’s budget benefits leaders through extravagances rather than empowering citizens. He contrasted this with the Linyon Demokratik Seselwa administration, which he said encouraged responsibility, independence, and hard work by linking rewards to performance. He highlighted LDS achievements including reducing the debt-to-GDP ratio from 80 percent to 54 percent, stabilising inflation at 1.6 percent, and achieving 5.1 percent economic growth in 2025.
He noted that tourism generated US $1.2 billion and reserves reached US $841 million. Hon. Georges said none of the capital projects announced in the new budget are original, claiming they were initiated under LDS. He argued LDS focused on engaging the business sector and encouraging Seychellois employment, while US relies on foreign partners. He also reiterated LDS opposition to using taxpayers’ money to compensate for the 1977 coup.
Leader of government business Hon. Sylvanne Lemiel defended the budget, describing it as the people’s choice for a new direction and a social contract between the US government and citizens. She praised measures recognising Seychellois workers, including restoring benefits such as the full 16-month pay long service allowance, saying these represent justice for workers and ensure dignity and prosperity.
Hon. Lemiel highlighted provisions for children, the elderly, and persons with special needs, stressing that the government will never compromise on these benefits. The Assembly continues budget debates with other members delivering their replies as the legislative process moves forward.
The 2026 budget debate reveals fundamental differences in economic philosophy between Seychelles’ major political parties.
