The Seychelles Election 2025 concluded with Patrick Herminie emerging as the new president after defeating incumbent Wavel Ramkalawan in a closely watched runoff on October 12, 2025. Herminie, the flagbearer of the United Seychelles Party, captured 52.7% of the vote, while Ramkalawan secured 47.3%.
Power Returns to United Seychelles
Herminie’s triumph restores United Seychelles to power after five years in opposition. The party previously led the island nation for over four decades, from 1977 to 2020, before losing to Ramkalawan’s Linyon Demokratik Seselwa (LDS).
Herminie’s Pledge to the Nation
In his first remarks after the announcement, Herminie thanked the people for their trust, saying the result reflected their desire for renewed leadership. He promised to govern with humility and a focus on uniting all 100,000 citizens of Seychelles following the Seychelles Election 2025.
Parliamentary Advantage
Herminie emphasized that his party’s majority in parliament would allow him to quickly implement reforms. He outlined plans to strengthen public services, boost tourism revenue, and protect the environment—key themes throughout his campaign.
How the Runoff Came About
The presidential race advanced to a runoff after no candidate obtained the required majority in the first round held two weeks earlier. Citizens cast early ballots on Thursday, with nationwide voting wrapping up on Saturday.
Core Campaign Issues
The Seychelles Election 2025 centered on two critical challenges: environmental vulnerability and drug addiction. Both candidates acknowledged that while the country thrives on high-end tourism, climate change and widespread heroin use threaten its stability.
Economic and Social Struggles
Although Seychelles boasts one of Africa’s strongest per capita incomes, its dependence on tourism leaves it exposed to external shocks. Rising sea levels and growing unemployment have deepened frustrations, fueling calls for policy change during the Seychelles Election 2025.
Public Discontent and the Drive for Change
In the months leading up to the polls, public dissatisfaction with the Ramkalawan administration grew, driven by economic stagnation and perceived inaction on key reforms. Voters ultimately favored Herminie’s message of continuity with renewal.
Dispute Over Island Lease Deal
The election campaign was shadowed by controversy surrounding a 400,000-square-meter land lease on Assomption Island to a Qatari company for a luxury resort. Environmental activists filed a lawsuit, warning the deal could compromise the country’s sovereignty and fragile ecosystem.
Climate and Drug Problems Persist
Seychelles continues to grapple with rising sea levels threatening its islands and a surge in heroin addiction draining public health resources. Addressing these twin crises is expected to be among Herminie’s top priorities.
Charting a New Course
Herminie’s victory in the Seychelles Election 2025 opens a new political chapter for the island nation. As the government transitions, expectations are high for decisive action on climate resilience, social welfare, and economic reform.
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