Former President Rene expresses ‘sorrow and shock’ over Sir James’ death |10 January 2017

Former President France Albert Rene has expressed “deep sorrow and shock” at the sudden and untimely passing of Former President James Mancham.

“My wife and I would like to extend to his wife Catherine and his three children our heartfelt condolences at this painful separation,” says Mr Rene in a message.

“On hearing his death it felt like an important chapter in the life of our young nation was slowly closing, the chapter which started in 1964.

“Jimmy and I have travelled a long way together and even though we differed in our political views and methods of achieving a prosperous, dignified and peaceful nation I had genuine respect for him both as man and as politician and I valued the role he played in our country’s struggles and development.

He was someone who truly understood the importance of being united and reconciled as a people in order for us to make progress as a small nation, and was prepared to rise above partisan politics to become a statesman and a champion of National Unity and Reconciliation.

“Up to the end he continued to champion the cause of peace and reconciliation both locally and internationally. The country should be grateful to him for all the work he has been doing for Seychelles on the international scene in promoting these noble causes and may our nation in one way or another continue to honour his memory by continuing to be the champions and guardians of these noble causes.

“He will long be remembered by all of us for his important contribution to the history of our nation, as well as for his charm, goodwill and sense of humour,” says Mr Rene’s message.

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