James R. Mancham

Sir James Richard Marie Mancham, born on August 11th 1939, was the first President of The Seychelles from 1976 to 1977, after the country’s accession to independence from the United Kingdom.

Biography

When Britain announced her intention to grant independence to the Seychelles in 1964, James R. Mancham founded the Democratic Party (S.P.D). He served as its leader until 2005. In 1966, he was elected Chief Minister of the Colony, promoting tourism and interdependence between The Seychelles and other states. In 1976 he won the popular vote after The Seychelles was granted of independence by the United Kingdom and became its first president, before a coup deposed him one year later in 1977. He lived in exile in London until 1992 before returning to The Seychelles. He subsequently ran for Presidency twice although was not reelected.

Education

Sir James Mancham graduated from Wilson College, London in 1961.

Special Achievements

James R. Mancham is the author of three books, Paradise Raped about the 1977 coup, War on America: Seen from the Indian Ocean, written after the September 11 attacks in the United States, and most recently his memoirs; Seychelles Global Citizen: The Autobiography of the Founding President. Additionally, he was awarded the Gusi Peace Prize in 2011.

Learn More

Lecture James R. Mancham: The Rise of Africa

The International Symposium on Cultural Diplomacy 2010: An Interview with James R. Mancham

External links: References

Sir James R. Mancham Website