Seychelles National Party

The Seychelles National Party is a liberal party in Seychelles. Its followers emphasize active multiparty democracy, respect for human rights and liberal economic reforms. It was founded in response to what it called the "totalitarian regime" of former President France-Albert René. It publishes a newsletter called Regar, which is frequently sued for libel by government officials.

The SNP was formed by the merger of three separate opposition parties in 1994: the Seychelles National Movement , led by Gabriel Hoarau; the National Alliance Party , led by Philippe Boullé (an independent presidential candidate in the 2001 presidential election); and Parti Seselwa , led by Wavel Ramkalawan.

Ramkalawan, an Anglican minister, is the SNP's current leader. He won 44.9% of the vote in the 2001 presidential election, behind René (54.2%) and ahead of Boullé (0.9%). At parliamentary elections in December 2002, the SNP won 42.6% of the vote and 11 seats out of 34. Seven members were directly elected and four were chosen by proportional representation.

See also

• Liberalism
• Contributions to liberal theory
• Liberalism worldwide
• List of liberal parties
• Liberal democracy

External links

• Official web site
• Regar (by subscription only)