April 14, 2010 -- The Office of the President has published a book titled "James Michel- A Man of the People, A Collection of Speeches" on the occasion of the sixth anniversary of the first inauguration ceremony of James Michel as the President of the Republic of Seychelles, which took place on 14th April 2004.

The book was launched at a special event at State House this afternoon, in the presence of President James Michel and the First Lady Natalie Michel,  former President James Mancham, former Prime Minister of Ireland Dr. Gareth Fitzgerald, Vice President Joseph Belmont, Ministers, the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, the Leader of Government Business in the National Assembly and members of the Diplomatic Corps.

During the book launch, the secretary of state in the Office of the President, Jean-Paul Adam introduced the publication as a collection of the President's speeches which together represent the 'vision which guides our country at this crucial juncture.'

"While this book is a collection of speeches delivered by the President- it represents more than the thoughts of one man. They form a discourse of hope, optimism and belief in the Seychelles and the Seychellois people. The words of the people as delivered by a man of the people. It is our wish that this compilation serve as a record of what our nation has achieved in 6 short years, as well as a symbol of the promise of what is yet to come from our young nation," said Mr. Adam. 

Mr. Adam noted that the President's speeches bring to mind the times of change in the country, of transformation and a sense of momentum which have become a part of the life of every Seychellois.

"In every speech, belief and faith in the Seychellois people resonate.  There is a recurring message that says 'I know I can count on you, and you can count on me'.  This is a discourse of trust, a relationship of understanding and compassion. This trust is built on the spirit of consultation and discussion." 

The former Prime Minister of Ireland, Dr Gareth Fitzgerald, also addressed the President and invited guests, with words of support and commendation.

" Having been here several times in recent years, I learnt of your problems and have admired the way they have been tackled... I admired the courage and the skill with which they have been addressed, and was very hopeful of the outcome. I am very impressed with what has happened since, and the fact that your people have supported difficult decisions," said Dr Fitzgerald.

Dr Fitzgerald commended President Michel's  commitment to truth and realism and his effective communication with his people.
 
" Your country is very fortunate to have had your leadership in this period and it is very impressive what has been achieved, and I look forward to watching the developments in the future."

During the book launch, remarks were also made by  Margarette Pillay, a Seychellois writer, as well by Professor and ENT Surgeon Ram Dhillon, and Emeritus Professor Dennis Hardy from the United Kingdom, via video conference.