The Parti Lepep leadership has through its lawyers, called upon the SNP to publish a full apology, following an article, appearing in the last “Nouvo Vizyon” linking the party, notably Mr. Albert Rene to drugs, or else face court action.
The newsletter in an article on drugs, alleged that it was Mr. Rene who had introduced drugs to Seychelles, before going on to claim that plentiful supplies of the substance was imported during the days when Tanzanian soldiers were in Seychelles.
The article also ridicules the JJ Spirit Foundation’s assistance to the Wellness Centre, where drug users are being rehabilitated.
The article, clearly written with malicious intent, was undoubtedly calculated to discredit the Parti Lepep leadership, especially Mr. Rene in public esteem.
The apology required of the SNP must be sincere and honest, with no ridiculing, as otherwise there will be legal redress.
At a time, when the Government is doing so much to combat drug trafficking and making commendable efforts to rehabilitate the victims, it is sad that the SNP, led by Father Wavel Ramkalawan has stooped so low.
The SNP knows very well that the Government has public support in its commitment against drugs, hence the desperate efforts to discredit its battle against the scourge.
On Tuesday and Wednesday evening, the SBC aired two programmes on the Montagne Posee and Coetivy prisons, showing that convicts are not merely subjected to a punitive sentence, but are given ample opportunities at these institutions to reform and change their lives, through several activities. These include sports, studying, learning new professions and general interacting with one another.
The programmes, focussing on rehabilitation are going down well in public opinion.
During a recent visit to Coetivy, President James Michel got familiarised with the rehabilitation measures, talked to the prisoners and urged them to lead productive lives upon their release.
