United Seychelles endorses presidential candidate’s running mate |03 August 2020

Mr Loustau-Lalanne salutes the crowd as he comes on stage to make his address (Photo: Brian Nibourette)

The United Seychelles (US) party officially endorsed Maurice Loustau-Lalanne as the running mate to presidential candidate Danny Faure during an extraordinary congress held on Saturday.

Incumbent president Danny Faure characterised Maurice Loustau-Lalanne as a competent, experienced and dynamic man who is qualified for the position of vice-president, especially as Seychelles attempts to surmount the impacts of Covid-19.

“Maurice Loustau-Lalanne is a child of Seychelles, who loves its land and sea and even its skies above. He is a Seychellois who loves Seychelles – its islands, environment and its progress,” said Mr Faure while introducing his running mate for the upcoming presidential election.

“I know his capability, knowledge and experience in various sectors. I know of his loyalty. He is someone who has a great sense of dedication, who is not afraid of hard work and who can overcome difficulties. I can count on him.”

Mr Loustau-Lalanne is presently serving as the Minister for Finance, Trade, Investment and Economic Planning in President Faure’s Cabinet.

“I know that Maurice and I will make for a good captain and co-captain at the head of an inclusive Seychellois team who will work hard for Seychelles,” Mr Faure added.

Again, Mr Faure spoke of his commitment in heading a government of national unity if he wins another presidential mandate.

Mr Loustau-Lalanne, who described himself as an impartial public servant, told the assembled crowd of US activists that it is the first time he addresses a political gathering since he has never been a member of a political party.

Mr Loustau-Lalanne noted that Mr Faure’s decision to look for a running mate outside of party lines provides him with a unique opportunity to make his contribution in an inclusive government of national unity.

“I was inspired by the platform of national unity that President Faure has proposed. It is a formula that promises to bring results and, in my opinion, it will bring the best results,” stated Mr Loustau-Lalanne.

“It will bring out a new dynamism in the government and give it a new direction, a better direction, and the only direction that is needed during this extraordinary period we found ourselves in. I sincerely believe that Seychelles needs unity; we need to come together and put differences aside […] to save our economy and country.”

His nomination was approved through a round of applause from the party members.

The provisional dates for the presidential election have been scheduled for October 22 to 24, 2020.

In a public address on Thursday, President Faure announced his intentions to dissolve the National Assembly, setting the stage for the country to undertake a general election this year.

Compiled by Elsie Pointe