The President Dr. Patrick Herminie chaired a scheduled meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday 18th March, during which a number of legal and policy memoranda were approved.

Cabinet approved a recommendation to delay the planned change in electricity tariffs, which was expected in April 2026, as a precaution. This decision was taken due to uncertainties in global fuel prices linked to the Iran conflict and possible lower electricity demand if tourism slows down. By keeping tariffs unchanged for now, Government aims to protect the electricity sector from rising costs, exchange rate pressures, and reduced revenue. This approach will help avoid sudden price increases later in the year, while ensuring more stable tariffs, protecting consumers, and maintaining a reliable electricity supply.

Cabinet considered the proposal for reforming the electricity tariff system but did not approve the move to a cost-reflective tariff framework that separates social support from the tariff structure. Cabinet decided to keep the current system, which includes support for certain groups through cross-subsidies, while more review is carried out. This will allow Government to better understand the possible impact on consumers, especially vulnerable households, before making any changes.

Cabinet approved proposed policy measures to prohibit unattended taxis at taxi ranks and queues at the airport and port. The aim is to improve order, fairness, and service delivery in the taxi system. The decision includes amendments to the Road Transport (Taxi) Regulations to require drivers to remain with their vehicles, restrict the use of taxi ranks strictly for passenger service, introduce a fixed penalty of SCR 1,000 for violations, and apply stricter sanctions for repeat offences. Cabinet also approved updates to the official schedule of taxi ranks and empowered Seychelles Airport Authority and Seychelles Port Authority security personnel to enforce the regulations and issue penalties accordingly.

Cabinet approved the Road Transport (Disabled Parking) Regulation 2026, aimed at strengthening accessibility and protecting parking spaces reserved for persons with disabilities. The approved measures establish a clear legal framework to regulate and standardise disabled parking nationwide, including the introduction of a formal Disabled Person’s Parking Permit system with defined eligibility and usage conditions.

Cabinet approved the proposed amendments to Section 74A of the Road Transport Act (Cap. 206) to make it mandatory for omnibus and SPTC bus drivers to wear seat belts thereby strengthening the legal framework governing seat belt use.

Cabinet approved amendments to the Broadcasting and Telecommunications Regulations of 2009 and 2021 to improve the management of prepaid mobile services, with a focus on modernising the system, strengthening compliance, and supporting Government’s digitalisation agenda. The changes include allowing the sale of e-SIM cards through digital platforms, introducing rules to support e-SIM technology, requiring annual audits by mobile operators, limiting SIM cards issued to tourists and non-residents to 21 days, and making it an offence to misuse or transfer registered SIM cards for illegal purposes. Cabinet also approved that these changes be incorporated under the Communications Act, 2023, and that the existing 2009 and 2021 Regulations be repealed.

Cabinet considered the proposed organisational structure and staffing plan for the Mental Health Care Agency and approved the initial setup to support its phased implementation under the Mental Health Care Agency Act, 2025. This includes the establishment of the Secretariat of the Secretary of State for Mental Health Care, as well as the positions of Chief Executive Officer and Deputy Chief Executive Officer. Cabinet also approved the undertaking of international benchmarking to ensure that best practices from similar entities are adopted.

Cabinet approved the revised Terms of Reference for the establishment of the Youth Empowerment Council, aimed at strengthening youth participation in national decision-making through a more structured, representative, and credible governance framework. The approved revisions include expanding Council membership from seven to nine members, extending the age eligibility from 15–30 to 15–35 years, revising the appointment process to be made by the President in consultation with the Minister responsible for Youth, and adjusting quorum requirements accordingly. Cabinet also noted the minor financial implications associated with increased member allowances and endorsed the Council’s initial two-year mandate, during which its structure and operations will be further refined based on experience and evolving youth engagement needs.