Seychelles Strengthens Military Leadership with Key Appointments
In a landmark ceremony at State House this morning, President Wawel Ramkalavan, Commander-in-Chief of the Seychelles Defense Forces, unveiled major leadership changes and the appointment of new officers, marking the continued modernization of the country’s military structure. A crucial step was taken.
In this reorganization, Brigadier General Michael Rosset was promoted to Major General and resumed his duties as Commander of the Seychelles Defense Forces. Colonel Jean Atala has been promoted to Brigadier General and appointed Deputy Chief of Staff of the Defense Forces. Both leaders will serve in their new capacities for two-year terms. Lieutenant Colonel Michael Hollanda was also appointed Chief of Staff, further strengthening the SDF’s leadership framework.
In addition to these important appointments, the ceremony also saw the commissioning of four Second Lieutenants who completed their officer cadet training at the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, India. The newly commissioned officers — Lt. Christopher Amery, Lt. Ray Charles, Lt. Ron Dufresne and Lt. Tarik Cedras — join several other officers who have been promoted from captain to major are celebrated in recognition of their outstanding service.
President Ramkalavan delivered a speech at the meeting, praising the officers for their dedication to national security and emphasizing the importance of the reorganization work to enhance the operational capabilities of the Self-Defense Forces and strengthen international cooperation. He also extended an open invitation to young Seychellois, encouraging them to join the Defense Forces and contribute to national security in various fields.
These promotions, recognized by the Defense Forces Council and approved by the Commander-in-Chief, follow strict promotion criteria and underscore the SDF’s commitment to excellence and strategic operational capabilities.
Dignitaries attending the ceremony included First Lady Linda Ramkalavan, Vice President Ahmed Afif, Chief Justice Ronny Govinden, Deputy Speaker His Excellency. Gervais Henri, Chief Minister Jean-François Ferrari, Interior Minister Errol Fonseka, Head of Government Operations Hon. Bernard Georges, Police Commissioner Ted Barbe, Intelligence Service Director Benidis Benediste Hoareau and Hon. Clifford Andre, Chairman of the Defense and Security Committee of the National Assembly. Also present were family members of Self-Defense Force officers and other invited guests.
This milestone reflects Seychelles’ commitment to developing a strong, modern and effective defense force to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing global landscape.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of the Seychelles Parliament.
