The Seychelles Human Rights Commission paid a courtesy call to President Dr Patrick Herminie on Friday, 21 November. The delegation was led by the Commission’s chairperson, Bernadin Renaud, accompanied by Barbara Andre, Elna Kumar, Roger Toussaint and Nicole Tirant-Gherardi.
Talks centred on the laws governing the Commission to give the President a clearer understanding of its role and responsibilities. Mr Renaud said the meeting was also an opportunity to re-establish a working relationship with the Office of the President, noting that President Herminie is new in office.
The Commission also updated the President on the ongoing investigation into the recent prison riot in which two people died. Mr Renaud said the inquiry, conducted jointly with the Office of the Ombudsman, is extensive, with more than 200 people to be interviewed, including prisoners, police, military personnel and hospital staff.
“We would like to make a very detailed and comprehensive report. I don’t think we will be ready with the report before July or August next year,” Mr Renaud said.
The Seychelles Human Rights Commission reports directly to the Office of the President, which holds the portfolio for legal matters.