Grand Anse Mahe district celebrates former President Rene's birthday |20 November 2012

The four-star hotel was catering for around 400 elderly residents from various parts of the district to commemorate Mr Rene’s 77th birthday, which he celebrated last Friday.

Among the guests for the occasion was former Vice-President Joseph Belmont, Minister Christian Lionnet, the district’s member of the National Assembly Lenny Lebon, and district administrator Raymonde Benstrong.

It was to a standing ovation that Mr Rene was welcomed upon his arrival, and in his short address he said he was happy and honoured to be on the receiving end of such an initiative.

“Thank you all of you who have worked hard to make this country what it is today, and although I was not feeling well, I made the special effort to be here with you today, and look forward to meeting you all again from time to time,” he said.

Former Vice-President Belmont then joined President Rene in cutting his birthday cake, which was then shared out with everyone present.

Also celebrating her birthday that day was Anne-Marie Leon, who also received birthday wishes from all present.

There was also an exhibition of still pictures being played on large TV screens set up all over the place, which depicted various moments in the life of President Rene.

Speaking to Seychelles Nation, MNA Lebon said because President Rene is a resident of Grand Anse Mahe, they decided to have something special in his honour at district level to which Mr Rene accepted the invitation.

“We got in contact with our various partners to get sponsorship, and they all responded positively, especially Le Méridien hotel, who gladly accepted to host the event,” he said.

“Apart from providing us with the venue, the hotel also sponsored a cake for Mr Rene. We thank all who made this day possible, and the senior citizens really had a good time in Mr Rene’s presence.”

The hotel’s managing director Imran Azhar said they will continue to be a partner in supporting initiatives at district level, and as part of their corporate social responsibility strategies, will continue to give back to the community.

“We will definitely be open to hosting the event again next year if we are asked to, since senior citizens are an important part of society,” he said.

The district authorities said they are now planning to make the celebration at district level an annual event for the senior citizens.