Candidates, Key Changes & October Runoff Update
🔁The presidential and legislative elections in Seychelles have now entered a decisive phase. After the first round of voting held on 27 September 2025, no candidate secured an absolute majority (50% + 1 vote). Therefore, a runoff will be held from 9–11 October 2025, between Patrick Herminie (United Seychelles, US) and Wavel Ramkalawan (Linyon Demokratik Seselwa, LDS).
In the first round, Herminie received approximately 48.8% of the votes, while Ramkalawan followed closely with 46.4%, which means the race remains extremely tight. As a result, the upcoming runoff is expected to be one of the most closely watched elections in the country’s history.
Meanwhile, the Seychelles Electoral Commission (ECS) has urged both voters and political parties to maintain a peaceful, fair, and respectful environment. In addition, officials have reminded citizens that transparency and cooperation are essential for a credible outcome.
Furthermore, an observer mission from the AU–COMESA declared that the first round was conducted in a free and fair manner. However, the mission will continue to monitor the second round closely, ensuring that the same democratic standards are upheld throughout the process.
In conclusion, the 2025 presidential elections represent not only a political turning point, but also an opportunity for Seychelles to reinforce its democratic values and global reputation.
Photo by https://ecs.sc/
📌 Keep reading to discover all the candidates, recent political shifts, and reflections on education, tourism, foreign ownership, and society.
Everything you need to know + personal reflections on education, tourism, drug crisis & land sales
For over 15 years, I’ve helped travelers experience the Seychelles in the most authentic and sustainable way. Today, I want to share a different perspective: a deeper look at what’s happening in the political and social fabric of these islands.
A crucial turning point for Seychelles
With campaign rallies already heating up across the islands, the 2025 Seychelles presidential elections are shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events in recent history. Voters are preparing to elect their next leader in a time marked by deep societal change.
Photo Credits Us
Main candidates
- Wavel Ramkalawan – Current president, representing LDS (Linyon Demokratik Seselwa), running for a second term.
- Patrick Herminie – Former Speaker of the National Assembly, candidate for United Seychelles (US).
- Alain St. Ange & Daniella Payette – Former Minister of Tourism, running Lalyans Nouvo Sesel with a focus on local heritage and international relations.
- Maarko Francis – Leader of the opposition Seychelles United Movement (SUM) party and candidate for the 2025 presidential election. Previously, he headed the Seychelles Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI).
Why these elections matter
Since the political shift of 2020, many public policies have changed, and the nation stands divided between continuity and a desire for transformation.
Personal reflections
As someone who has lived, worked and built strong ties with Seychelles over the years, I feel the need to raise a few key points:
1. The ANHRD scholarship program has changed
Previously, talented Seychellois students were able to study abroad thanks to scholarships funded by the ANHRD, with the commitment to return and work in the country.
Recent reforms have severely reduced this opportunity, stripping many youths of access to top-tier education and future professional growth.
2. The growing drug crisis
A heartbreaking issue that continues to affect the country is the rise in drug use, particularly heroin.
International reports, including by the BBC, have documented how deep this crisis runs. It affects entire families, the workforce, and the future of an entire generation.
3. Closure of overseas tourism offices
Post-COVID, key Tourism Seychelles offices in Europe were closed, including the Italian one in Rome.
This decision weakened the country’s visibility abroad, especially in strategic markets, and goes against the nation’s need to support its primary source of income: tourism.
4. Land purchases now open to foreigners
A recent law has opened the possibility for foreigners to purchase land or residential properties in Seychelles—a major shift from past policies.
In such a small country, this decision risks slowly erasing the cultural soul of the islands. It’s a process happening globally, but here the impact could be devastating.
Final thoughts
Seychelles needs leadership that is responsible, forward-thinking and connected to its people.
My intention isn’t to criticize, but to spark awareness and give voice to the concerns of locals and those who love these islands.
And to end …
During my last trip to Seychelles, I had the pleasure of meeting a truly remarkable woman: Veronique, the wife of presidential candidate Patrick Herminie.
We even snapped a photo together — and who knows… it might be my first official photo with the future First Lady of Seychelles!
Now I just need one with the President himself, and my “Faces of Seychelles Politics” collection will be complete!
Jokes aside, it’s always inspiring to meet people who are genuine, passionate, and have a clear vision for their country.
No matter the election outcome, my greatest hope is for Seychelles to be led by someone who listens, includes, and truly honours what makes this paradise so unique in the world.
How to follow the elections?
Seychellois citizens can vote at their local polling stations on on September 25th on the island of La Digue, on September 26th on the island of Praslin and on September 27th on the island of Mahè.
All official updates are available on the Electoral Commission of Seychelles website.
.For those abroad or simply following from outside the country, stay informed through:
- Seychelles Nation
- Seychelles News Agency
- Today in Seychelles
| ITALIANO | CREOLO |
| POLITICAL ELECTIONS | ELEKSYON POLITIK |
| POLITICAL PARTY | PARTI POLITIK |
| VOTES | VOT |
| POLITICAL CANDIDATES | BANN KANDIDA POLITIK |
