Africa-Press – Seychelles. Clarification on the requirement for unpaid leave during election candidacy
The Office of the Chief Secretary wishes to clarify that Circular 5 of 2025, issued on June 20, 2025 by the government of Seychelles, reaffirms the policy first established in Circular 9 of 2016, issued on August 12, 2016 regarding the participation of public sector employees as candidates in elections.
Circular 9 of 2016 clearly and unambiguously states that “public sector employees standing as candidates for National Assembly Elections are to take unpaid leave from the date of their official declaration as a candidate until the electoral process is completed”. This requirement was instituted to avoid any actual or perceived conflict between political activity and public duties, thereby protecting the neutrality and integrity of the public service.
The reference in the final paragraph of Circular 9 of 2016 serves as a compliance instruction to heads of organisations, as the timing for taking unpaid leave is clearly stated in the opening section of the circular as commencing from the date of the employee’s official declaration as a candidate.
Circular 5 of 2025 is not a new policy, nor does it deviate from Circular 9 of 2016. It simply reiterates the existing requirement and provides further clarity and updated guidance. This policy remains essential in upholding the political neutrality, transparency, and operational integrity of the public service.
A copy of Circular 9 of 2016 is attached for reference.
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