Presidential election 2011 -Candidates outline their plans

The four candidates due to take part in the May 19-21 presidential election have outlined what they plan to do for the people if elected.

 Copies of the candidates’ manifestos

Their proposals are listed in their manifestos which have been released in booklet form, and generally cover the economy, social development, environment conservation, safety and security and maintenance of law and order among other topics.

On the economy, Parti Lepep candidate James Michel says he aims to secure continued growth so all Seychellois can prosper.

“In the past we have relied too heavily on grants and international development finance. We must reduce this dependence and stand on our own, he says, in his manifesto which is entitled, My plan for you.

Independent candidate Philippe Boullé says there is a need for a “forceful drive to remove Seychelles from the depths of an economic abyss”.

In his manifesto which is called, The time has come, Mr Boullé says Seychellois must be given control of the economy and the benefit of employment opportunities and business.

The Seychelles National Party candidate Wavel Ramkalawan says there is a need to redirect economic activities in favour of Seychellois.

“Seychellois must own our economy,” he says, adding low and medium level of capital investment should be reserved for Seychellois.

The manifesto is called, A better life for all Seychellois.
The New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate Ralph Volcere’s  manifesto is called The pledge: An agenda for real change.

It says the party believes there are great opportunities in travel, communication, leisure and wealth, “but a disparity in the way risks and opportunities are distributed”.

“The NDP will improve the ability of employees and businesses to compete and maintain a stable low-inflation economy.

On the social arena, Mr Michel promises “progression and fairness for all”.

He says he will pursue a house-building programme aimed at eradicating poor living conditions that will enable Seychellois to get the money they need so their families can live in a stable environment.

“I will ensure completion and delivery of outstanding projects across all districts,” he says.

The SNP says if voted in it will encourage private banks to take part in a scheme allowing easy access to finance for home expansion and improvement.

“Investment in housing finance will be encouraged with appropriate tax concessions,” it says, adding citizens will be helped to choose the best housing options.

The NDP says it will give a “greater choice and security in housing and house ownership by supporting a three-way partnership between public, private and other housing sectors.

“We need to promote a high quality public sector housing scheme,” its manifesto says, talking of “soft mortgages with better consumer protection”.

Mr Boullé’s manifesto says housing should be based on humane consideration and not financial or other factors. His manifesto “is not meant to judge, blame or condemn but rather to look at events as they are and offer solutions free from the weight of political and historical constraints”.

All the candidates also outline what measures they would take to conserve the environment and boost law and order.

Messrs Michel and Boullé’s teams gave copies of their manifestos to the media and electoral commissioner Hendrick Gappy when the candidates and their running mates handed in their nomination papers on Wednesday last week, while the SNP launched theirs in a ceremony at the International Conference Centre last Friday.

Source: NATION 5-5-11