A website called Think Africa Press has published an incisive article on the political situation in Seychelles. Called 'Seychelles: Democracy Without Freedom', it has been written by Ben Carson, its head of Communications and Public Relations, after a visit to the country last month.

The article observes that Seychelles enjoys the recognition of being a democracy but remains short in some key areas. A subservient media and ominiscient executive may allow free elections but does not ensure responsible government, it says.  "The most striking characteristic of the lead up to this presidential election is fear", the article notes.

For the whole article: Click this link: 'Seychelles - Democracy Without Freedom'.

SNP Presidential candidate Wavel Ramkalawan has said that the SNP vision for Government included a new mission for leadership. State House will have a different role, he said.

SNP Leader Wavel  Ramkalawan is calling for the Government to clarify the situation regarding Air Seychelles. In a Private Notice Question (PNQ) to Vice-President Danny Faure as Minister of Finance, Mr. Ramkalawan will ask about the financial situation of the airline and future plans.

SNP leader Wavel Ramkalawan opened the National Assembly debate on the State of the Nation on Tuesday, March 1, 2011.

The State of the Nation reply is one of the rare occasions  when the Leader of the Opposition can address the people of Seychelles on state funded national media. The privilege is one that President Michel enjoys and makes use of to the full but which has been denied to the other side of the political field.