SDF PERSONNEL MUST NOT SHOW POLITICAL AFFILIATION

LDS holds resolutely to the principle that the Armed Forces of Seychelles must remain entirely independent and unaffiliated to any political party. The party in Government must adhere to this basic tenet of democracy and should not demand or accept that any official serving in the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF) openly displays any political association, in particular while on duty. This must apply also to personnel assigned as security for the President.

LDS condemns the disregard of President Patrick Herminie for this principle, as shown by the presence of an SDF officer with him in a public meeting at Les Mamelles today. Pictures of the meeting clearly show the officer, Richard Francourt, recently promoted to the rank of Second Lieutenant, behind the President in the position of bodyguard and wearing a party t-shirt. Other unidentified officers are also reported to have been wearing the t-shirt while on duty with the President. As Commander-in-Chief it is part of his responsibility to ensure that conduct of all who serve are beyond question.

SDF Officer in Party T-shirt With President Herminie

The SDF and the Seychelles Police are entrusted to serve all the people of Seychelles and any display of political affiliation betrays the spirit of impartiality that they are required to hold. In ensuring security for the President, officers of these forces are serving the State and not the political interest of the President. Breaching this code must be liable to disciplinary action. LDS call on the commanding officer of the SDF to take appropriate action.

LDS remains committed to respecting the position of all state institutions which are meant to be independent of the Executive. This is necessary to reassure the public that they will fulfil their role in accordance with the law and their Constitutional purpose and obligations.

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