MNAs meet with delegation from the Seychelles Human Rights Commission |06 April 2022

The meeting in progress

A meeting between the Seychelles Human Rights Commission and the National Assembly has been described as a remarkable starting point for the two institutions to establish a high-level relationship for the betterment of society.

The meeting, held recently, was led by the deputy Speaker, Hon. Gervais Henrie, who expressed his gratitude for meeting the delegation.

The chairperson of the Commission, Justice Bernardin Renaud, said the aim of this meeting was to discuss how the Commission and the National Assembly can establish a proper network of communication to enhance their working ties respectively.  This will enable both parties to have a better understanding of the philosophy and mandate of the Commission and how the National Assembly can help in delivering these mandates.

Justice Renaud pointed out that there was a national lack of awareness on the mandate of the Commission and this has resulted in a campaign to educate the Nation on its crucial role and mandate, and this has commenced with the Legislature.

George Robert, the legal director of the Human Rights Commission, made a presentation on the procedures for investigating cases, the rule of law and their essentiality in the functions of society.

Mr Robert’s presentation also detailed the process and function of the Human Rights Commission that the Constitution makes provision for.

In addition, it also highlighted the need for more engagement from members of the National Assembly with the Commission, especially when executing their legislative mandate.

On the other hand, the members present wanted to get more clarification about the efficacity of the Commission and the challenges that they face in carrying out their mandate.

Hon. Esparon and Hon. Cosgrow respectively questioned the types of cases and the length of procedures when executing their investigative work.

Members also suggested that the Commission engages with all the ministries and governmental organisations for the effective implementation of their strategic plans. Both delegations agreed to pursue an MoU which will detail the specific collaboration between the National Assembly and the Human Rights Commission.

All members and officials from the Commission agreed that this was only a first step towards many more discussions and engagement between the two institutions. Justice Renaud expressed that this was a historical mark for the Human Rights Commission into engaging with the parliament and they are convinced it will be fruitful.

The delegation from the Human Rights Commission comprised Justice Bernardin Renaud, chief executive Elvis Julie, Nicole Larsen, their senior monitoring officer and George Robert the legal Director. The delegation of the National Assembly comprised of the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Gervais Henrie, Hon. Waven William, Hon Regina Esparon, Hon. Norbert Loizeau, Hon. Egbert Aglae, Hon. Audrey Vidot, Hon. Naddy Zialor, Hon. Rosie Bistoquet and Hon. Wallace Cosgrow, as well as the Clerk to the National Assembly, Tania Isaac and deputy Clerk, Alexandria Faure.

Press release from the National Assembly secretariat