Death of Seychelles’ Founding President James Mancham |09 January 2017

Former President James Michel expresses condolences  

Former President James A. Michel has expressed his deepest sorrow and regret on the passing away of the Founding President of the Republic of Seychelles, Sir James R. Mancham. 

In a letter to his wife, Lady Catherine Olsen Mancham, Mr Michel said that he was shocked by the loss of his friend, saying that while words alone will not assuage the grief and sense of loss felt by Lady Mancham and her family, Mr Michel and his family are united with the Mancham family in their great bereavement, where they may find comfort and solace in the memories that they all have of ‘Jimmy’.

“Jimmy was a world statesman, a philosopher, a writer and a poet whose commitment and tireless contribution to the promotion of world peace, progress and reconciliation found resonance on the international scene and in Seychelles. He was a pillar of the contemporary history of Seychelles and a central figure of our return to multi-party democracy. He was a true apostle of peace, national unity and reconciliation, and his achievements, vision and endeavours in that sense will remain his enduring legacy. I shared his principles and was proud to call him a friend and to avail myself of his wise counsel. We shall always remember Jimmy for the contribution he made to our country, for the patriot that he was – a man of uncompromising principles and conviction, the Founding President of the Republic of Seychelles who shall continue to inspire us and many generations of Seychellois to come. We owe Jimmy a lot and we shall always be grateful to him.” 

President Michel said that he joins the Seychellois nation in offering his deepest sympathy to Lady Mancham and the Mancham family and offers his unconditional support as they mourn the passing of Sir James.  

“I pray that you find the strength and courage to overcome your great loss. May Jimmy’s soul rest in peace.”