In the evolution of its society, Seychelles has remained faithful to its
multi-ethnic roots. For over two centuries, the islands have remained a
melting pot of different races, traditions and religions from the four
corners of the earth.
Inspired by its grand diversity of cultural influences, ethnic diversity
with racial harmony remain the mainstays of today's vibrant yet tranquil
Creole nation for which harmony is a way of life.
Government
The Republic of Seychelles has a multi-party political
system with an executive President as head of state and government. The
President heads a Cabinet of 10 ministers which includes the
Vice-President.
In April 2004 Mr. James Alix Michel replaced Mr. France Albert René as
President after Mr. Rene had been in office since 1977. The Vice
President is currently Mr. Joseph Belmont. The First Designated
Minister is Mr. Danny Faure, who is also the Minister for Finance.
Legislative power is vested in a National Assembly of 34 members of whom
25 are elected directly in constituencies with the balance on
proportional basis based on the results of the National Assembly
elections.
Parti Lepep,The People’s
Party, previously known as the Seychelles People’s Progressive
Front (SPPF), currently led by President Michel, holds 23 seats in the
Assembly.
The main opposition party, the Seychelles National Party (SNP,
previously known as the United Opposition) holds the other 11seats. SNP
is headed by Rev. Wavel Ramkalawan.
The other main political party (not currently represented in the
National Assembly) is the Democratic Party (DP), headed by Mr. Ralph
Volcere.
The Republic of Seychelles is a member of the United Nations, the
African Union, the Commonwealth and La Francophonie. It has embassies
in Paris, New York, Brussels, New Delhi and Beijing as well as numerous
honorary consulates worldwide.
People
Today, the 81,000 strong Seychellois population continues to reflect its
multi-ethnic roots. Traditionally, the islands have attracted a broad
diversity of peoples from the four corners of the earth that has
included freed slaves, European settlers, political exiles, adventurers,
traders of Arab and Persian origin as well as Chinese and Indians.
Practically every nation on earth has been represented in this melting
pot of cultures, each one contributing its special influence to today's
vibrant yet tranquil society.
Language
There are three official languages in Seychelles: Creole (a lilting,
French-based patois), English and French. Many Seychellois also speak
fluent Italian or German.
Religion
Roman Catholicism remains the dominant religion of Seychelles but there
are also Anglican and Protestant churches and the places of worship of
other denominations. These live in harmony alongside, Muslim, Hindu and
Bahaï communities based on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue.
Inside
Island
Mahe
Praslin
La Digue
Bird Island
Cerf
Chauve Souris
Cousine
Denis Island
Fregate
North Island
Round Island (Praslin)
Silhouette
Ste. Anne
Anonyme
Aride
Concepting
Cousine
Curieuse
Felicite
Grande Soeur
Ile Cocos
Long Island
Moyenne
Petite Soeur
Round Island
St. Pierre
Outside Island
Aldabra Atoll
Assumption
Astove
Cosmoledo Atoll
African Banks
D'Arros
Desroches
Poivre Atoll
Remier
St. Joseph Atoll
Coetivy
Platte
Alphones
Bijoutier
St. Francois
Farquhar Atoll
Providence Atoll
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Indiatravelite 2008-2009
Today, the 81,000 strong Seychellois population continues to reflect its
multi-ethnic roots. Traditionally, the islands have attracted a broad
diversity of peoples from the four corners of the earth that has
included freed slaves, European settlers, political exiles, adventurers,
traders of Arab and Persian origin as well as Chinese and Indians.
