Seychelles Election Opens as Ramkalawan Seeks Second Term

Thursday 25th September 2025

by inAfrika Newsroom

Seychelles election began today with early voting on outlying islands and for essential workers. Main polling on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue starts Saturday. Results are due Sunday after a three-day process, the commission said.

President Wavel Ramkalawan seeks a second five-year term. He points to tourism recovery, low inflation and falling public debt. He says stability and neutrality will draw investment.

His main rival, Patrick Herminie of United Seychelles, campaigns on the cost of living, corruption claims and drug abuse. He says households feel pressure despite recovery headlines. Smaller candidates include a gospel singer, an entrepreneur and a former tourism minister.

About 73,000 citizens are registered to vote. They will choose among eight presidential hopefuls and candidates for the 35-seat National Assembly. Ramkalawan’s Linyon Demokratik Seselwa wants to keep its majority. The opposition aims to force power-sharing.

Queues formed in Victoria as early ballots were cast. Some voters called for change. Others backed continuity after the pandemic slump. Officials reported calm and routine checks at stations. Final turnout figures will come after the main islands vote.

The economy remains central to the race. The IMF says inflation is below 2%, with debt on track to drop under 50% of GDP before 2030. Tourists have returned, but prices still pinch. Parties promise wage support, better schools and tougher anti-drug programs.

Regional partners will watch for smooth logistics and clear tabulation. Observers expect close monitoring of island returns and the pace of result releases. The commission plans rolling updates as district checks finish. Any disputes will move to the courts on a set timetable.

For a small archipelago, the stakes feel large. A clean Seychelles election supports investor confidence and the tourism brand. A messy one could dent momentum. Campaigns urged patience as counting begins in full this weekend.