Seychelles Opposition leader Patrick Herminie of the United Seychelles (US) party has emerged victorious, defeating incumbent President Wavel Ramkalawan of the Linyon Demokratik Seselwa (LDS) alliance in a presidential runoff. With 52.73% of the vote, Herminie clinched a mandate for change, signaling a potential shift in the island nation’s political landscape amid pressing concerns over the economy, drug crisis, and environmental challenges.
Ramkalawan conceded gracefully, urging unity in a post on social media.
Seychelles’ general elections kicked off on September 27, 2025, with voting spread across the archipelago’s islands to accommodate its unique geography. Over 77,000 eligible voters turned out in force, achieving an impressive 84% turnout in the first round.
The presidential race, held under a two-round system, required a candidate to secure more than 50% of the vote. When no one did in the initial ballot—Herminie led with 48.83% and Ramkalawan trailed closely at 46.44%—a runoff was triggered between the top two contenders from October 9 to 11.
Patrick Herminie: The Steady Hand from the Opposition
Born in 1963, Herminie brings a wealth of political experience to the presidency. A longtime figure in Seychellois politics, he previously served as Speaker of the National Assembly, earning respect for his measured approach to governance. As leader of United Seychelles—the progressive party founded in 1964 as the main opposition—Herminie campaigned on tangible promises: reverting the retirement age to 63, slashing bus fares by 40%, and boosting social security benefits. His victory marks the first time since 2015 that US has reclaimed the presidency, tapping into frustrations over rising living costs and social issues.
Born in 1963, Herminie brings a wealth of political experience to the presidency. A longtime figure in Seychellois politics, he previously served as Speaker of the National Assembly, earning respect for his measured approach to governance. As leader of United Seychelles—the progressive party founded in 1964 as the main opposition—Herminie campaigned on tangible promises: reverting the retirement age to 63, slashing bus fares by 40%, and boosting social security benefits. His victory marks the first time since 2015 that US has reclaimed the presidency, tapping into frustrations over rising living costs and social issues.
Wavel Ramkalawan: The Priest-Turned-President Who Couldn’t Secure a Second Term
Ramkalawan, 64, leaves office after a single term defined by his outsider roots and reformist zeal. Born in 1961 on Mahé to a metalworker father and primary school teacher mother, he trained as an Anglican priest in Mauritius and the UK before entering politics.
Ramkalawan, 64, leaves office after a single term defined by his outsider roots and reformist zeal. Born in 1961 on Mahé to a metalworker father and primary school teacher mother, he trained as an Anglican priest in Mauritius and the UK before entering politics.
Elected in 2020 as an LDS alliance candidate, he broke decades of one-party dominance. Yet, challenges like the drug epidemic, environmental threats from climate change, and sovereignty debates over outer islands weighed heavily on his re-election bid.
