Citizens Democracy Watch Seychelles (CDWS) elects new executive committee |14 August 2019

Sitting from L-R: Eline Moses (secretary), Gerard Limsam (chairperson), Juliette William (treasurer), Fred Bamboche (vice-chair). Standing: Jean Claude Matombe, Tressy Dine & Kisnan Tamatave (ordinary executive members)

Members of the Citizens Democracy Watch Seychelles (CDWS) elected a new executive committee at the organisation’s annual general and strategic meeting held on Saturday August 3, 2019 at the AVANI Resort.

At the helm of the NGO is new chairperson, Gerard Limsam (former vice-chair), replacing Eline Moses who have successfully served a total of two consecutive terms. Joining Mr Limsam are Fred Bamboche (vice-chair), Eline Moses as secretary and Juliette William as treasurer.

The general assembly also elected Jean-Claude Matombe, Tressy Dine and Kisnan Tamatave as executive committee members.

In presenting the chairperson’s report, the outgoing chairperson, Mrs Moses, highlighted the achievements and challenges of the organisation. “At this juncture in its journey, CDWS needs a strong and courageous leadership team, with the zeal and determination to build on our successes and find innovative ways to make a significant impact in our society. As we journey together, let us all be good stewards of our talents, let us all collaboratively work together towards a common goal; respecting one another and upholding the principles of democracy and good governance,” she stated

Formed in 2011, CDWS is recognised as the first NGO accredited to observe election in Seychelles. The interventions of this non-profit, non-partisan organisationis motivated by Article 24 of the Constitution of Seychelles, which guarantees every citizen the Right equal participation in the conduct of public affairs and elections. The actions of the NGO is grounded on advocating for civil and political rights, participatory citizens’ engagement and inclusive political processes

Over the past two years, CDWS has strengthened its relationships with a range of local and international stakeholders, in the areas of democracy and good governance. The NGO has been instrumental in the implementation in a joint CEPS/ARID/CDWS EU-funded project aimed at promoting citizens’ participation in the electoral processes. CDWS has also co-hosted various workshops in partnership with the US Embassy. These include “Transparency & Good Governance” as well as a half day sectoral workshop on consolidating the role of civil society in democracy.

The organisation which is currently developing its strategic plans, has been pivotal in the delivery of a human rights and good governance training for NGOs as well as presentations in schools. As part of its effort to promote democratic elections, CDWS offer election management services and has successfully presided over the elections of SCCI, Senior Citizens Asssociation, Nurses Association, Paster Lannwit, Sesel Paster Lanwit and most recently Lasosyasyon Pour Promouvwar La Trankilite ek Respe.

In terms of capacity development, CDWS occasionally participates in overseas training under the EASFCOM in the fields of human rights, peace and security. In addition, CDWS observers continue to play an active role in international election observer missions.

CDWS is a volunteer-based, non-profit, non-partisan organisation funded largely by grants and members individual contributions. The executive committee members are all volunteers who give their time and offer their professional skills pro-bono.

For more information on the works of CDWS and membership application, please contact cdwseychelles@gmail.com