President James A Michel has dedicated the year 2016 to the theme of  'I Love Seychelles', one that continues from the same theme of 2015, and appeals to the patriotism of all Seychellois.

In his New Year's message which was broadcast on national television this evening, the President said that during the last few months, and in particular in the last few weeks and days, we have lived – each one of us in our own way – moments of great intensity. He said that despite all, the people of Seychelles have been victorious in this testing exercise of democracy .

“ I remain persuaded, even after all we have all heard and witnessed, Seychellois remain united despite the diversity in their opinions.  It is our  diversity – through respect for each other – which strengthens our unity as a people.  Which make us rich.  Which makes us love Seychelles.The approaching new year gives us the opportunity to rededicate our efforts to the construction of a better Seychelles, in peace and unity.  It is the time to heal wounds.  To open our arms in solidarity and fraternity to our compatriot brothers and sisters, irrespective of opinion.  The time for reconciliation and peace – more than ever,” said President Michel.

The President said that the year 2016 represents all this, and more as it is  the start of a new chapter in our personal lives, in the life of our nation, which presents us with new opportunities but also new challenges.

“The New Year before us is above all a powerful symbol which embodies hope.  Hope for a better Seychelles.  A better future.  More progress and wellbeing for our people.  But also more responsibilities.  A new year of hope.  A year in which I shall make fundamental and radical changes. Change in peace, order and tranquility.  Change which will preserve our accomplishments.  Change which will create more opportunities and offer greater hope for all Seychellois.  Change, also in a climate of tolerance and respect.Respect for ourselves, for our families, for each other, for our country and all its institutions.  Our country can never go forward if we do not have respect for each other, for diverging opinions and beliefs, for our democracy and institutions  of state.”

The President called on all Seychellois to trust and respect the independent institutions set up by the Constitution to protect individuals and the collective interests of our society.

“Insults and incitement to disorder will not bring us far.  Grudges and vengeance – disguised as "diverse  opinions – will tear us apart.  On the contrary, we want to develop a society which us ever more tolerant, with greater harmony, transparency, order, peace and respect.  A society which our children and grandchildren will be proud to inherit.”

He said he would to guide the people of Seychelles toward this new stage of development of the country and give them hope to move forward in their everyday lives, help to improve their social situation, create even more opportunities for Seychellois to take ownership of our economy, give them a helping hand where needed as well as adddressing all the ills which are eating away at the fabric of our society.

“ Establish a new style of governance.  A Government which not only remains listening to our people, but also viewing them in a different way.  A Government which will work even harder, which will make an even greater effort, to improve the standard of life of the people of Seychelles in 2016.In my State of the Nation Address, I shall address these questions in greater detail, and proposing concrete measures,” said the President.

The President said that he gives the people his commitment that he shall implement the changes which they have asked for in this new mandate, which are changes which he shall implement in his first 100 days in office.

“My Government and I cannot do this alone.  We shall need the help and support of all Seychellois.  We are all part of the Seychellois family.  There is no place for division in our family.  It is the interests, the happiness, the moral, spiritual and material welfare of our Seychellois family which matters above all.  I say to you tonight: join me to make Seychelles blossom!”

The President said that it is important for us to continue showing our love for Seychelles and for this reason that – after much consultation and reflection – he decided to retain the national theme I Love Seychelles for the year 2016.

“It evokes all the we believe in, our values, our hopes, our unity as a people, the beauty of our country, the harmony among our people.  It evokes strong feelings of attachment to our country, for our people and our progress.Despite us being a small country, our ambitions and our aspirations are as varied as immense.  To realize them we must, at all costs – and more than ever before – preserve our national unity and social cohesion.  We all have a role to play in the development of country – each in his or her own way.  Let us take our responsibility.  Rally together to reinforce our links, support each other, to work together in the national interest, to show love and solidarity for Seychelles and our compatriots.  Let us never allow our differences of opinion to divide us.  Let us preserve the unity which prevails between us.”

The President wished all Seychellois, at home and overseas, and residents and visitors in Seychelles, a very Happy New Year 2016.

Editor’s Note

For the Creole, French and English versions of the full message see: http://www.statehouse.gov.sc/messages.php