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Fifteen
years have elapsed since the National Assembly of Seychelles was
officially created. Each year has seen our institution grown from
strength to strength. Today, the National Assembly is at the
centre-stage of politics and has rightly claimed its place in the
democratic evolution of our small country as it ventures on its quest
for excellence.
From the
Board of Civil Commissioners in 1872 to the present National Assembly,
we, the People of Seychelles, have spared no effort to exploit our
infinite capacity to learn, assimilate and evolve, but always propelled
by our common desire to build a strong, prosperous and united nation.
In this
challenging pursuit, our youth have played an immense and contributory
role, always in the forefront to bring about meaningful change. Indeed,
our present youthful Assembly bears testimony to this noble tradition of
our great nation.
Today we
stand at a crossroad, and we should not procrastinate to follow the path
leading to what Jawaharlal Nehru called “a parliamentary system of work
with an essential basis of co-operation between the opposition and
government.”
We all
share different views and different stands, and our common task is to
master these differences, not to be swept by them. Indeed, our National
Assembly provides a unique forum for the expression of divergent views
but this opportunity must be exercised with much responsibility so that
our nation does not slide into an abyss of discord, strife and
institutional instability.
On the 29th
May 2007, when I was elected the Speaker of the National Assembly, I
vowed to work tirelessly for a more serious and dignified institution. I
harboured no illusion then that the task would be difficult, for
overcoming resistance to change has always been the greatest obstacle
encountered by all pioneers throughout history.
As Mahatma Gandhi constantly
reminded us, the journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step.
This new website is but another step that we are taking to bring the
National Assembly closer to the people it is there to serve.
Welcome to
our new website.
Hon. Dr.
Patrick Herminie
The Speaker
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