Seychellois President Patrick Herminie on Thursday became the first head of state to submit his declaration of assets to the country’s anti-corruption body, setting a precedent for transparency in public office.
Herminie filed his asset declaration form with the Anti‑Corruption Commission Seychelles (ACCS), followed by Vice President Sebastien Pillay and all 14 cabinet ministers.
“The move reflects the government’s continued efforts to uphold public trust and strengthen institutional accountability, as senior office holders fulfil their legal obligations under the asset declaration framework,” according to a State House statement.
The asset declaration framework was established under the Public Persons (Declaration of Assets, Liabilities and Business Interests) Act of 2016, introduced to strengthen accountability and combat corruption.
Oversight functions were transferred to ACCS in 2021 although amendments at the time removed requirements for officials to declare family members’ assets, sparking debate over transparency.
Recent legislative proposals aim to restore those provisions and refine definitions within the law.
Herminie’s move marks a symbolic step in advancing institutional accountability and public trust.
JN/APA