Reflection |17 February 2026

A divided nation is a weaker nation: Why unity must be Seychelles’ common goal

Small island nations feel division more sharply than larger countries. In a place like our Seychelles where communities overlap, families intertwine, and history is shared at close range, political fractures don’t stay in Parliament – they seep into workplaces, churches, schools, and homes. This is why a deeply divisive political climate is not only unhealthy, but dangerous for our collective future.

Opposition is essential in any democracy. It exists to question power, scrutinise decisions, and represent voices that may feel unheard. A strong opposition keeps governance honest and accountable, and Seychelles is better for having one. But opposition must not become obstruction for its own sake, nor should it thrive on polarisation that pits Seychellois against Seychellois. When disagreement turns personal, and politics becomes tribal, the entire nation pays the price.

Division weakens trust. It erodes confidence in institutions, discourages civic participation, and creates an “us versus them” mindset that has no place in a country as small and interdependent as ours. Investors hesitate. Young people become cynical. Social cohesion frays. Instead of debating ideas, we end up questioning motives and loyalty – and that is a dangerous road.

What Seychelles needs is not silence or blind agreement, but constructive disagreement. The opposition should challenge policies robustly, yes – but with the clear intention of improving outcomes for citizens, not scoring political points. Likewise, the government must remain open to criticism, willing to listen, and prepared to adjust course when necessary. Accountability and humility on one side, responsibility and vision on the other – these are not opposing values; they are complementary ones.

At the heart of this must be a shared national purpose: unity. Not uniformity of thought, but unity of intent. Agreement that despite political differences, we all want a safer country, a stronger economy, opportunities for our youth, dignity for our elders, and social harmony across all communities. These goals transcend party lines.

History shows that nations progress fastest when political rivals can still agree on foundational principles. For Seychelles, those principles should include respect, dialogue, and a commitment to nation-building above partisan gain. When leaders – both in government and opposition – model this behaviour, it filters down into society. It reminds citizens that disagreement does not have to mean disrespect, and that loving one’s country sometimes means compromising for its greater good.

A divided Seychelles is not a resilient Seychelles. Unity does not weaken democracy; it strengthens it. Opposition should do its job fully and fearlessly – but always with the understanding that the ultimate goal is not to defeat the government, but to serve the nation. In a country as precious and as small as ours, unity is a necessity.

J Gilbert-Finnigan