State-of-the-nation address set for early March |17 January 2023

The National Assembly has confirmed that the start of its 2023 session of Sittings is planned for early March, with an opening ceremony and the State-of-the-nation address by the President.

The timing of the opening is in response to the special need to undertake repair and renovation work in the Chamber which is being carried out during the present recess.

Repair work to the flooring in the Visitors’ Gallery has been necessary because of the flooding which occurred in the Chamber late last year, when a water tank in the ceiling overflowed. The incident sparked an electricity shortage which caused a limited fire in one of its conference rooms as well as damage to flooring and woodwork in other areas.

The renovation works entail a project to change the seating configuration in the Chamber. Instead of the present rectangular arrangement, the seating will be a semi-circle with all members facing the Speaker’s platform which will be moved to the centre of the long edge of the room. Such an arrangement will fit the customary configuration of legislative chambers worldwide. It is also necessary to install a new microphone system which can only be done after the repairs are completed. Delivery of this will be completed in late February. Our audience will remember that transmission of Assembly proceedings has often been affected by malfunctioning microphones.

The project, which is being directed by the Seychelles Infrastructure Agency, involves major modification of the furniture and installations in the Chamber. The Speaker, Hon. Roger Mancienne, has briefed President Wavel Ramkalawan of the situation which affects consideration of the date for the State-of-the-nation address.

The National Assembly notes that a March opening of sessions is not altogether unusual since it has happened on occasion in the past. The Speaker’s Office and the Secretariat expect that the timing will not cause undue delay in the Assembly’s work for the year. The Assembly will adjust the dates of its sittings during the year in response to legislative requirements.

Meanwhile the Secretariat and Committees of the National Assembly will continue to be active, including the members in their respective constituencies.

The Assembly thanks the Seychellois public for its continued interest and engagement as it carries its duties as the legislative branch of government of Seychelles.

Press release from the National Assembly secretariat