NCTC - holds second meeting for the year
July 05, 2022
The National Countering of Terrorism Committee held its second meeting for the year on 01st July, 2022.
Amongst matters discussed in the meeting held, were firstly; the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering of Terrorism Financing National Risk Assessment which is due to take place in July 2022. It is to be noted that similar assessment took place five years ago. The World Bank is facilitating such assessment and locally it is being spear-headed by the Ministry responsible for Finance. A number of entities are expected to participate and the works which have already started is expected to last for a period of 18 months.
The various amendments to the Prevention of Terrorism Act and its Regulations were also discussed at length. The Committee was briefed that the Eastern and Southern African Anti-Money Laundering Group (ESAAMLG) had reviewed a number of amendments to the legislation and regulations which were brought forward by Seychelles during the review which was held in April 2022 and have provided constructive comments on the way forward.
It is expected that more amendments to the said legislation and regulations be tabled before the National Assembly as soon as practicable. The Chairperson stressed on the fact that periodic review is necessary so that Seychelles be on par with international best practices and obligations. Seychelles is expected to defend its position in the upcoming ESAAMLG meeting which will be held in Zambia in September, 2022.
The Committee is chaired by the Minister for Internal Affairs, Mr. Erol Fonseka. The other members are: Commissioner of Police; Mr. Ted Barbe, Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit; Mr. Richard Rampal, Attorney General; Mr. Frank Ally, representatives of the Ministry responsible for Finance, Secretary of State, Mr. Patrick Payet, and the Ministry responsible for Foreign Affairs; Special Advisor; Mr. Steve Lalande and Ms. Tania Potter, who is also the Secretary of the Committee.
To know more, read the press release below.