RENEWING OUR COMMITMENT TO DEMOCRACY AND GOOD GOVERNANCE IN THE FACE OF PRESENT THREATS

LDS reaffirms its commitment to the principles of Democracy and Good Governance that are enshrined in its vision for Seychelles. This declaration of commitment and renewal is vital in light of the misguided decisions of the United Seychelles government which are encroaching on these principles and betraying the wishes of the majority of our people.

Party Leader and Former President Wavel Ramkalawan outlined the main issues of concern in his address at the party’s Annual Convention on August 9, 2026. Warning that the present course was taking the country back to dictatorship, he declared the Party’s determination to do all it can to maintain the country’s adherence to the sacred values of democratic governance.

Today, we share these key principles with all who are concerned about the future of our country.

PRESERVING SOVEREIGNTY AND INDEPENDENCE

LDS will defend our national sovereignty and control over all of our territory as well as the right to our own voice in international affairs. We continue to welcome cooperation with friendly countries in issues of global concern as well as their participation in national development. But sovereignty and independence must not be compromised in these relationships.

Decisions made recently in respect of our airspace, the proposal for a foreign military base on Assumption Island and positions that have been expressed on international affairs have been contrary to this principle. We assure the people of Seychelles that we will remain constant in maintaining our independence.

BUILDING A STRONG ECONOMY AND ADVANCING LIVING STANDARDS

The well-being of a nation rests on a sound economy that can promote growth and ensure increasing prosperity. We must ensure the good performance of all our industries and enterprises. The country’s finances must be managed carefully to strengthen our income and to keep expenditure in sustainable balance. A strong economy is the basis for improving living standards which encompass personal income and quality services (health, education, welfare) and national infrastructure.

The present administration has jeopardized these goals through decisions that that have affected the national economy negatively and weakened government finances while spending on ceremonial prestige and political patronage. It is also increasing exposure to local and foreign debt as well as risking our position in global financial institutions.

LDS will continue to maintain our commitment to strengthening our economy so as to ensure prosperity of its citizens and national development.

RESPECT FOR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND INDEPENDENCE OF INSTITUTION

Our Constitution guarantees the essentials of democracy. It enshrines the rights of citizens as well as separation of powers, most importantly the independence of the Judiciary. 3

Defending those rights and the independence of state institutions has been a principal mission of LDS over the years. It will continue to be a central focus of its political program, especially in the face of threats brought about by the decisions and actions of the present administration.

The climate of fear which has been instilled by victimization in the Public Service and other actions have infringed on the freedom of citizens. The independence of public media and the security of private citizens have been prejudiced by recent legislation that put key institutions under the control of the President. The intention to bring the Judicial branch of government under political control has been made clear.

LDS renews its commitment to a free society and nation, and to be an example of democratic governance.

TRUTH AND INTEGRITY IN GOVERNANCE

Democracy must be anchored in sound principles applied with integrity. The conduct of Government demands ethical standards on the part of its leaders. It must be bound by truth and accountability, show respect for political opponents and use the powers and privileges of office judiciously. Government in a democracy must also accept continuity and respect for preceding administrations.

The present administration has pursued a campaign of false accusations against the former President through public statements and the use of judicial processes that have the sole purpose of justifying such statements. President Herminie has constantly made such accusations without proof prior to appointing Commissions of Inquiry into the subjects of his accusations. There have also been threats to dismantle measures taken by the previous administration even where these where legitimate and taken with due regard to rightful procedures.

LDS will continue to defend the truth and advocate for the principled conduct of Government, respecting the standards of democratic governance.