Is considered by the people of Seychelles that the rights of all members of the
human family "are more effectively maintained and protected in a democratic society where all
powers of Government spring from the will of the people" (Preamble of the Constitution, 8th
paragraph).
Accordingly, Article 24.1 establishes: "Subject to this Constitution, every citizen of Seychelles
who has attained the age of eighteen years has a right:
a) to take part in the conduct of public affairs either directly or through freely chosen
representatives;
b) to be registered as a voter for the purpose of and to vote by secret ballot at public elections which
shall be by universal and equal suffrage;
c) to be elected to public office; and
d) to participate, on general terms of equality, in public service".
In Chapter VII "Electoral areas, franchise and Electoral Commissioner" the
Constitution establishes more specific rules on this issue, such as right to vote,
qualification as a voter, funds in relation to election and referendum, registration of
different political parties; and the office of Electoral Commissioner.
Article 113: "A citizen of Seychelles who is registered as a voter […] shall be entitled to vote
[…]:
a) at an election for the office of President;
b) at an election of the members of the National Assembly; or
c) in a referendum held under this Constitution,
unless any circumstances have arisen which […] would cause the citizen to be disqualified".
Article 114: "A person can be disqualified from registration under an Act on the ground of_
a) infirmity of mind;
b) criminality; or
c) residence outside Seychelles".
Article 115: "There shall be an Electoral Commissioner who […] shall not be subject to the
direction or control of any person or authority in the performance of his functions" (Paragraphs 1
and 3)
According to Article 116 some of the main functions of the Electoral Commissioner
are the following:
a) Be responsible for the conduct and supervision of the registration of voters and
of elections and referenda.
b) To keep under continuous review the practices and working of political
campaigns in respect of elections and referenda.