Africa-Press – Seychelles. “If today we are proud as a Nation, we must give credit to those brave and bold enough to fight for Independence.
“If the colour of our flag seems to shine brighter and is more meaningful as it freely floats over our beautiful capital Victoria and the islands, it is due to the sacrifices and labours of our heroes past. It is only fitting, therefore, that today we remember and pay homage to the main characters in the struggle to free us from the yoke of colonialism, namely France Albert Rene and James Mancham.
“If the world is boasting over our progress, in so many spheres including our islands and beaches, it did not happen overnight.
“47 years in the life of this young democracy symbolises our triumph as a small island State over the many trials and challenges we have overcome.
“We each carry a perspective of our history but the roadmap for our country was made clear since June 29, 1976, when we exchanged with pride the British flag to what was our first one.
“As we celebrate our 47th anniversary and joyously sing our patriotic songs, no matter our ideology or beliefs, let us remember and reflect on how this multi-cultural nation has moved from bondage of slavery from the start of its existence to liberty and freedom of choice today.
“We should never be complacent and should ensure that we continue to maintain our independence from any outside influence and that we forge ahead with the success of all our people in mind ‘lest we forget’ the lessons of the past.
“I stand proudly as a child of the 1960s and one of those who might not have been given a chance at the time if not for the fortitude of others, who made certain I was given the opportunity to become a professional to better serve my country.
“Let us therefore each take our responsibility to ensure that this country never returns to bondage and dependence like so many democracies even older than ours, but that we grow as a nation to better itself and its people. Complete unity should be our ultimate goal, but without political tolerance and social justice, this will remain elusive.
“On behalf of the United Seychelles party, and in my own name, I wish the people of Seychelles a blessed and wonderful Independence Day!”
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