Commission of Inquiry Into Travizory Agreement Sworn in at State House
VICTORIA, Seychelles — A three-member Commission of Inquiry tasked with examining the agreement between Seychelles and Travizory has been officially sworn in during a brief ceremony at State House, investigating the border management services agreement signed between the government and Travizory in March 2021. The Travizory Commission of Inquiry is chaired by Supreme Court judge Laura Pillay and includes members Christopher Mancham-Gill and Suketu Patel.
The commission has been mandated to conduct a detailed inquiry into how the agreement came about, including negotiations and discussions between the parties involved. The inquiry will also examine the terms and conditions of the agreement and determine whether they are consistent with Seychelles’ legal framework, procurement standards, and contractual principles. Another key part of the investigation will focus on identifying individuals and parties who were involved in negotiations leading up to the signing.
The commission will investigate concerns regarding Travizory’s tax obligations, particularly whether the company failed to pay Value Added Tax in connection with its activities. In addition, the inquiry will look into allegations of improper benefits, including whether any bribes or other illicit payments were offered or received. It will also seek to determine whether any government officials or political figures may have benefited directly or indirectly from the arrangement.
Judge Pillay said the commission would first focus on setting up necessary administrative arrangements before beginning its work, including appointing a secretary and establishing rules of procedure. The commission’s proceedings are expected to be conducted in public in line with the Commission of Inquiry Act, unless there are specific reasons to hold certain sessions privately. The commission will be required to submit a final written report within six months.
The Travizory system is used by the Immigration department as part of the country’s digital border control process, including the electronic travel authorisation system for visitors entering Seychelles. The terms of reference for the commission were published in the Official Gazette on Wednesday, April 15.
The Commission of Inquiry into the Travizory agreement marks a significant step in ensuring transparency and accountability in government contracting.
