Vice-President Afif sheds more light on cabinet decisions |06 June 2023
Vice-President Afif
In last week’s cabinet meeting chaired by President Wavel Ramkalawan, cabinet discussed the rationale for the moratorium that is currently in place on the sale of land to non-Seychellois for residential purposes. Cabinet advised that a policy review be undertaken before any specific applications could be considered.
In a briefing with the press following the meeting, Vice-President Ahmed Afif explained that the moratorium has to stay for now to give the government more time to study the market.
“We also believe that going forward, we need to look at formulas such as setting a threshold where sanction may be granted and secondly try to favour middle income Seychellois earners to acquire a property. The other part of the thinking is that even if it is allowed, the land is given for a period of time to foreigners and after a while, it will return to the state. But at this point, these are only thoughts and the government needs more time to work on these options.”
In its last meeting, cabinet also approved amendments to the thirteenth month salary legislation. The amendments focused on conditions for payment of the thirteenth month salary.
“13th month as we know it now is half fixed and half based on performance. The government has decided that for the next two years we will use the same formula. But as of 2026, the 13th month salary will be fully based on performance. The other restrictions to benefit from the 13th month salary such as if you work in an organisation for less than a year or if you earn R45,450 or plus will be removed as of this year 2023 and will remain tax free,” explained Vice-President Afif.
The 13th month salary legislation applies for public and private sectors. Vice-President Afif maintains that the 13th month salary is like a bonus and the aim is to reward or encourage someone to do better in the organisation.
Cabinet was briefed on the proposed transformation of the Ile Perseverance secondary school into a National Technical and Vocational secondary school, with effect from January 2024 subject to detailed plans being approved.
Vice-President Afif explained that consultations have taken place between various institutions and parents and the Ministry of Education came up with proposals and also believes that things will work out well.
“For sure this will require some investments to turn the school into a vocational institution but everything is set for its opening in 2024. The intake of 2024 is estimated at 500 and for 2025 it will be 1000. Students currently at Perseverance school will be redistributed to Belonie, English River and Mont Fleuri. ”
Cabinet also recognised the contribution of the late Archbishop Emeritus French Chang-Him to Seychelles. He was described as a model who was always present in the midst of the Seychellois families. Cabinet conveyed its condolences to his two daughters and his extended family. A state funeral will be held for him. “The state funeral will be held on Friday June 9 and all flags will be flown at half-mast from 6am to 6pm that day. Government is also thinking about having a half day on that day as we expect many people to come show their sympathy to the family,” shared VP Afif.
Vidya Gappy