Victoria: President of the Republic of Seychelles, Dr. Patrick Herminie, presided over the swearing-in ceremony for the new Commission dedicated to enforcing, implementing, and monitoring the recommendations of the Truth, Reconciliation and National Unity Commission (TRNUC). The ceremony, held today, also saw attendance from Vice President Mr. Sebastien Pillay, former President Mr. Danny Faure, and members of the National Unity Committee.
According to African Press Organization, the establishment of this Commission is a pivotal step towards supporting the implementation of the recommendations outlined in the TRNUC Final Report. It aims to further Seychelles' journey towards reconciliation and national unity. The creation of the Commission underscores President Herminie's ongoing commitment to fostering unity and a renewed sense of togetherness in Seychelles since he assumed office.
During the ceremony, the appointed Commissioners formally took their oaths, assuming their roles to oversee, monitor, and support the execution of the TRNUC recommendations. This Commission will act as a crucial mechanism to ensure coordination and oversight, focusing particularly on the victims identified in the TRNUC Final Report.
Commissioner Mr. George Bibi, speaking to the press after the ceremony, highlighted that the Commission's primary task is to determine reparations for victims. He noted that collaboration with institutions like the Seychelles Human Rights Commission, the Ministry of Education, and the Seychelles Police Force will be pivotal to their efforts.
Mr. Bibi emphasized that the Commission will submit annual reports to the President and provide regular public updates to maintain transparency and curb misinformation. He explained that reparations will be determined based on the nature of violations such as unlawful killing, imprisonment, forced eviction, and other recognized violations as detailed in the TRNUC Final Report.
The Commission will develop a clear framework for assessing compensation, ensuring all claims are considered fairly, consistently, and transparently. Victims will be invited for individual interviews to understand the calculations of their awarded compensation. However, should they disagree with the Commission's determination, their recourse would be through the courts, as there will be no internal appeal process.
Acknowledging the prolonged wait endured by victims, Mr. Bibi assured that the Commission would expedite its establishment phase, expecting full operational status in approximately two months. He stressed that while the Commission is committed to fulfilling its responsibilities diligently, it recognizes the sensitivity and complexity of its mandate.
Additionally, Mr. Bibi clarified that the Commission's responsibility is restricted to determining the quantum of reparations, with the Reparations Trust Fund Committee handling the mobilization and management of funds.
Reparations are not confined to monetary compensation but may include restitution and rehabilitation, drawing on the legal and psychological expertise within the Commission. The Commissioners will soon designate a Chairperson and a Vice Chairperson, with their terms set for five years.
The TRNUC Final Report, containing these recommendations, was submitted to former President Wavel Ramkalawan in March 2023.