On 23 September 2025, a group of journalists visited Assomption Island, flying there… (6/11)

SEP 25 2025 · 18:47

On 23 September 2025, a group of journalists visited Assomption Island, flying there on an @idcseychelles (IDC) plane. This video by @telesesel1 provides one of the first looks at the island in a long time. The trip comes shortly after recent public discussions around Assomption (presidential debate and the constitutional petition). Here’s what we noticed: 🎵 The video uses playful, light music, giving it a surprisingly “holiday vibe.” 🔬 No environmental experts or scientists appear on site, so for viewers without specialised knowledge, it’s hard to tell what is or isn’t happening in relation to the EIA. 🐢 Cyril Bonnelame, CEO of IDC, confirms that a tortoise was injured during operations, supporting previously reported images. He also says that soil and plant importation hasn’t happened (yet?). ⚠️ The Stop Notice issued in May 2025 is acknowledged, but Cyril Bonnelame’s response suggests that it didn’t apply to them. The journalists don’t seem to ask more questions on it. 🗺️ Local knowledge matters: Have these journalists been to Assomption before? Do they know the terrain well enough to spot changes or “before and after” differences? Local knowledge indicates that the boat’s position suggests either dredging or destruction of a reef. 🚶 Journalists were accompanied throughout the visit, suggesting a fairly controlled experience. It’s not clear whether they could access all areas or speak freely with workers. Drone footage covering the whole island wasn’t included. 🛠️ The video features Jordan Koos, listed online as one of the top construction managers in the Seychelles — giving a sense of who’s on the ground managing works. ⏰ The timing of the trip and its publication has raised questions. Assomption remains a sensitive topic during the pre-election “cooling-off” period. It has been flagged by Charles De Clarisse and Lalyans Nouvo Sesel. Overall, this is a rare glimpse of Assomption. It gives us an idea of how the development is proceeding, but the video leaves us with more questions rather than clarity on what is happening on the island.