United Seychelles rally on La Digue |06 November 2023
‘US is committed to addressing the high cost of living’ – party president
The president of the opposition United Seychelles party has reassured his supporters that the party is committed to addressing the high cost of living and improve the lives of the people.
Dr Patrick Herminie was addressing hundreds of supporters in a rally on La Digue yesterday afternoon, which he dedicated to the party’s founding father, France Albert Rene.
Mr Herminie highlighted the various challenges faced by the population, specifically the high cost of living, lower salaries, lack of employment, limited opportunities for the youth, and businesses, among others.
He described the present system, led by the ruling party ‘Linyon Demokratik Seselwa’, as “the most corrupt liberal, capitalist system” and said once elected his party will bring back justice and prosperity for the people.
“There is too much suffering and poverty in the country today. Families who have lunch cannot afford dinner, children are sleeping on an empty stomach, and too many Seychellois do not have money in their pockets,” he stated.
Dr Herminie said US was the only party which could establish a people’s government, “by the people, for the people”, and outlined a series of measures that would be put in place once they are elected, including increasing the minimum salary, re-introduce the 13th month salary, remove levy and taxes in the tourism sector, review STC’s role so as to reduce the cost of living, and reduce the pension age from 65 to 63 years.
For Diguois, he announced a special welfare programme specifically for parents, revision of their salaries, an introduction of 75 percent fuel concession, and the abolishment of port fees, so as to reduce the cost of living on the island.
The US president also called for the audit of various expenses and funds citing Covid-19 fund and travisory, payment for athletes that took part in the recent Indian Ocean island games in Madagascar, and project to resurface roads across the country.
With regard to his recent arrest on witchcraft-related charges, Dr Herminie reassured his supporters that the party will thrive, despite attempts to tarnish his reputation and prevent him from standing in the upcoming election.
“No one in Seychelles can close our party,” he stated, adding the US will fight to remove the current party from power.
The rally also saw addresses by other members including the elected member for La Digue, Rocky Uranie, as well as musical performances until 6pm.
Photos: Contributed
