The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (the Commission), through the Country Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Republic of Seychelles, Honourable Commissioner Solomon Ayele Dersso, and the Special Rapporteur on Prisons, Conditions of Detention, and Police Action in Africa, Honourable Commissioner Maria Teresa Manuela, expresses profound concern regarding the incidents that occurred at Montagne Posée Prison in Seychelles on 5 December 2024. Reports reaching the Commission indicate the deaths of two detainees and injuries to others, including law enforcement personnel.
These events underscore the need for urgent action by the Government of Seychelles to uphold its obligations under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (the African Charter) and the Luanda Guidelines on the Conditions of Arrest, Police Custody, and Pre-Trial Detention.
The Commission, acknowledging the Seychelles Government’s expressed commitment to upholding human rights and addressing the circumstances surrounding the events at Montagne Posée Prison, calls upon the Government to take the following actions:
1. Independent Investigation and Accountability
The African Commission calls on the Government to immediately commission a thorough, independent, and impartial investigation into the events at Montagne Posée Prison. This inquiry should identify those responsible for any violations of human rights and ensure accountability in accordance with national and international legal frameworks. Transparent processes are essential to restore public trust and safeguard the dignity of detainees.
2. Access to Remedies and Justice
The authorities are urged to ensure that families of the deceased and injured individuals are granted access to legal representation and remedies. The State is requested to ensure justice, including fair compensation and psychosocial support for the victims and their families. Such measures align with Article 7 of the African Charter, which guarantees the right to a fair trial and effective remedies.
3. Compliance with Due Process Standards
The State is requested to guarantee that all detained individuals are informed of their rights, including their legal status and any charges against them, as prescribed by the African Charter and the Luanda Guidelines. The prompt production of detainees before judicial authorities and the right to legal representation must be respected to prevent arbitrary detention.
4. Improvement of Detention Conditions
The African Commission urges the Government to urgently assess and enhance the physical and procedural conditions within detention facilities to ensure that they meet international human rights standards. This includes providing adequate resources for detainees’ welfare and ensuring the safety and security of both detainees and law enforcement personnel.
The Commission stands in solidarity with the Government and people of Seychelles, expressing condolences to the families of the deceased and wishing a swift recovery to the injured. It reaffirms its commitment to supporting Seychelles in upholding human rights and ensuring the dignity and security of all individuals.
Honourable Commissioner Solomon Ayele Dersso
Country Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Republic of Seychelles
Honourable Commissioner Maria Teresa Manuela
Special Rapporteur on Prisons, Conditions of Detention, and Police Action in Africa
Done this 6th day of January 2025
