The Office of the President has refuted claims made by Member of the National Assembly, Hon Jean-Francois Ferrari, during the final day of debate on the State of the Nation Address today, where he claimed that the President of the Republic owns shares in an alcohol production company.

President Faure has categorically denied the accusations and appeals to Members of the National Assembly to use their immunity and privilege to put forward ideas and proposals that foster solution-focussed discussion and take the country forward.

In a statement, the President has said, “I have no actual, beneficial or ultimate rights to shares in any such companies. Alcohol abuse is a serious problem in our society. Let us not dilute its severity with false allegations that take attention away from the issue at hand, which needs to be addressed urgently.”