Justice Mathilda Twomey has been sworn in as the Commissioner for the Commission of Inquiry on Assomption during a ceremony held on Friday, 12 December, at State House.
This was done in the presence of President Dr Patrick Herminie and Vice-President Sebastien Pillay. Justice Twomey says the commission has already begun its work, noting that she recently visited Assomption with the Island Conservation Society (ICS) and the Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF), both of which have been involved with the project at different stages of the development. Representatives from the Island Development Company (IDC) also joined the visit, along with a private consultant who will give testimony.
Justice Twomey outlines her responsibilities by stating that she is collecting all information related to the project and will compile a report with recommendations for the President at the end of the inquiry.
“I will not be actioning on the recommendations,” she says.
She confirms that the inquiry will operate publicly and that a secure email address, independent of government agencies, and a dedicated hotline are now available for individuals who wish to share information, including anonymously. The email address is [email protected] and the hotline number is 2809574.
Justice Twomey says the commission is examining nine areas within a six-month timeframe and reaffirms that, as the sole Commissioner, she will ensure the inquiry remains impartial and independent.
On 11 December 2025, former President Wavel Ramkalawan announced that he is ready to fully cooperate and asked that his deliberations be broadcast live on television. Justice Twomey says all deliberations will be public and adds that if there is a request for live broadcasting, she will ask for the full proceedings to air rather than edited segments.
The inquiry will take place at the Court of Appeal. The first witness will appear on 8 January 2026 to give testimony on environment and conservation. Justice Twomey says summonses will go out to persons of interest and encourages anyone with direct or indirect involvement in the project to come forward and provide evidence.