US considering legal action after party President discharged from witchcraft case |17 February 2024

From left to right: Messrs Pillay, Fanny, Herminie and Cosgrow (Photo: Laura Pillay)

United Seychelles party president Patrick Herminie revealed yesterday that he is considering taking legal action against the government of Seychelles, following his discharge from the witchcraft case on Thursday.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday morning at the Maison du Peuple, Dr Herminie stated that along with his legal counsel Basil Hoareau they feel that they have a strong case against the government, as well as the Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation (SBC).

The party president highlighted the lack of evidence against him in the prosecution docket, which spans over 500 pages. He accused President Wavel Ramkalawan of initiating the politically motivated prosecution against him, asserting that the "malicious and well-calculated" accusations aimed to tarnish his reputation, and hinder him from standing in the 2025 elections.

For the time being, the United Seychelles (US) party is assessing whether it is prudent to seek compensation from the government, as taxpayers will ultimately bear the cost.

“Regardless of what we decide, we want to finally see an end to the abuse of power coming from the State House,” Dr Herminie said. 

As for SBC, Dr Herminie stated that the national media house faces legal action, for allegedly reproducing false information about him, specifically a statement made by President Wavel Ramkalawan which suggests that he effected a payment to Tanzanian national Alli Said Ali. Dr Herminie refuted claims that he paid US $4,000 to Mr Ali, once again clarifying that Mr Ali visited him at his office in his capacity as an Islamic Imam.

Mr Ali was arrested at the Seychelles International Airport on September 21, 2023, allegedly in possession of artefacts and objects related to witchcraft. Mr Ali, along with two Seychelles men were on Thursday charged with additional counts of witchcraft-related offences.

The case, which initially led to his arrest on September 29, 2023, stirred controversy and speculation among US supporters. However, Dr Herminie expressed gratitude for the support he received during this challenging time.

He expressed that his arrest and affiliation with the witchcraft case have served to unite the political party, while also “bringing me closer to my loved ones and friends,” seizing the opportunity to thank those who stood by him.

Addressing the issue of witchcraft, he added that if US wins the 2025 elections, they will work to repeal it from the law.

Looking ahead, Dr Herminie announced plans to unveil the US presidential candidate and running mate on June 2, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the party's founding by former President France Albert Rene.

The announcement was made in the presence of party vice president Marvin Fanny, secretary general Wallace Cosgrow, and leader of the opposition in the National Assembly Sebastien Pillay.

Laura Pillay