Seychelles: President Herminie Receives Final Report on Assomption Island Development Inquiry
President Dr. Patrick Herminie officially received the final report of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the sublease and development of Assomption Island from Commissioner Judge Mathilda Twomey during a ceremony at State House. This submission marks the conclusion of six months of intensive investigation into the controversial development project on the remote outer island.
Commission’s Mandate and Inquiry Process
The Commission was tasked with examining various aspects of the Assomption Island project, which has raised significant concerns among environmental stakeholders. From January 12 to March 31, the Commission held numerous public and in-camera hearings, reviewing extensive documentation from government agencies, private sector stakeholders, environmental experts, and other individuals involved in the project.
The report focuses on critical areas related to the luxury hotel development on Assomption Island. It scrutinizes the sublease agreement and contractual arrangements involving the Islands Development Company (IDC), the Government of Seychelles, and the developer, Ocean Breeze Investments Limited.
Environmental Concerns and Compliance Issues
Given Assomption Island’s proximity to the Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the project has drawn considerable scrutiny from conservation groups. The Commission assessed environmental and conservation issues, evaluating the project’s impact on the ecologically sensitive island, compliance with environmental regulations, and adherence to conditions set by the Department of Environment.
Additionally, the inquiry examined financial probity, including the flow of funds and the transparency of the agreements. Oversight mechanisms were also scrutinized, including international flights to the island and the involvement of government officials throughout the project’s implementation.
Key Findings and Recommendations
Following a brief meeting with the President, Judge Twomey expressed satisfaction that the report was submitted within the designated timeframe. The report comprises approximately 400 pages, supported by a substantial volume of documentation reviewed by the Commission.
Three individuals and two organizations referenced in the report were notified on the morning of the handover. They have been granted ten days to submit comments or responses regarding the findings related to them.
Judge Twomey stated that the investigations were conducted based on the balance of probabilities as the applicable standard of proof. Recommendations have been forwarded to relevant authorities, including the Office of the Attorney General, the Anti-Corruption Commission of Seychelles (ACCS), and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), to continue investigations concerning certain individuals and organizations.
Executive Interference and Public Servants’ Rights
The environmental chapter of the report, which spans nearly 100 pages, raised concerns about potential interference by the Executive. Judge Twomey emphasized that public officers have the right and duty to perform their responsibilities in accordance with the rule of law. She noted that no one should interfere with their work or instruct them to act outside the law.
She encouraged public servants to refuse any unlawful instructions and advised that if anyone finds themselves in such a situation, they should request written confirmation of the instructions. This approach can clarify matters and ensure accountability.
Acknowledgments and Future Steps
Judge Twomey commended all those who assisted the Commission during its inquiry, particularly individuals who participated in the hearings and provided relevant evidence. She expressed gratitude to organizations such as the Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF), the Island Conservation Society (ICS), the Ministry of Environment, Friends of Aldabra, and the Indian Ocean Tortoise Alliance (IOTA). Their representatives traveled at their own expense to Aldabra to provide valuable insights into the island’s ecosystem.
Further details regarding the report’s findings and recommendations are expected to be made public after the review process and consideration of any responses from the notified parties.
The Commission was appointed on December 9, 2025, with Judge Dr. Mathilda Twomey assisted by Dr. Joelle Barnes, who served as Secretary to the Commission. Earlier this year, President Herminie visited Assomption Island with his team to gain insights into the development’s scale and nature, reflecting the Administration’s commitment to transparency and informed decision-making on national matters.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-06-12 17:59:00 • By the Editorial Desk
