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Seychelles:
The
Seychelles is a group of islands situated in the Indian Ocean
to the northeast of Madagascar. The British and French had
a long
struggle for control of these islands which eventually culminated
in British occupation in 1814.
The country attained its independence
on the 29th of June 1976. A coup in 1977 resulted in Albert
Rene becoming the country’s president. He adopted socialist
rule which officially ended when a new constitution was adopted
in 1993.
Later in the same year, the first free elections were held and
won by President Rene. The President won the following elections
and officially stood down in 2004 and was replaced by his deputy
James Michel.
Administration:
The Seychelles is divided into 23 Administrative districts:
Anse aux Pins, Anse Boileau, Anse Etoile, Anse Louis, Anse Royale,
Baie Lazare, Baie Sainte Anne, Beau Vallon, Bel Air, Bel Ombre,
Cascade, Glacis, Grand' Anse (on Mahe), Grand' Anse (on Praslin),
La Digue, La Riviere Anglaise, Mont Buxton, Mont Fleuri, Plaisance,
Pointe La Rue, Port Glaud, Saint Louis, Takamaka.
People of Seychelles:
The Seychelles is home to an estimated 81,541 people. A culturally
diverse nation, the main ethnic groups living here are; French,
African, Indian, Chinese and Arab. English is the official
language here though Creole is widely spoken. Christianity is
the main
religion observed by over 90% of the nation’s population.
Other religions include Hindu, Islam and traditional beliefs.
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