Seychelles Heads for Presidential Run-Off After Tight Race

Opposition leader Patrick Herminie and incumbent President Wavel Ramkalawan prepare for decisive showdown

Seychelles is heading for a presidential run-off election after no candidate secured the required majority in last week’s highly contested vote. Opposition leader Patrick Herminie won 48.8% of the ballot, narrowly edging out President Wavel Ramkalawan, who secured 46.4%, according to the country’s electoral commission.

Electoral Rules Require Majority

Under Seychelles’ electoral system, a candidate must earn more than 50% of the vote to be declared the outright winner. With no contender crossing that threshold, officials confirmed a second-round election is scheduled for October 9–11. The run-off will determine who leads Africa’s smallest country during a time of political change and mounting public concerns.

Small Nation, Big Stakes

Despite its size, Seychelles’ politics often draw attention beyond its shores. The Indian Ocean archipelago of 115 islands is home to just over 120,000 people but carries significant weight in global tourism, conservation, and maritime sovereignty. The vote attracted eight presidential hopefuls, though the race ultimately centered on Herminie and Ramkalawan.

Ramkalawan Seeks Second Term

President Ramkalawan, representing the Linyon Demokratik Seselwa (LDS) party, is seeking a second mandate. His campaign has emphasized economic recovery in the wake of global shocks, stronger social development, and a commitment to environmental sustainability. Ramkalawan came to power in 2020, ending decades of dominance by United Seychelles.

Herminie Eyes Political Comeback

Patrick Herminie, the main challenger, represents United Seychelles, which controlled the nation’s political landscape from 1977 until its 2020 defeat. The party is showing signs of resurgence, having regained control of the National Assembly with 19 out of 35 seats in parliamentary elections held alongside the presidential vote. Buoyed by this legislative majority, Herminie told supporters in a televised address, “We are ready for a second round. We start campaigning tomorrow.”

Parliament Shifts in United Seychelles’ Favor

The parliamentary results suggest that Herminie could benefit from broader momentum heading into the run-off. With United Seychelles once again holding sway in the legislature, the political balance of power is shifting, raising the stakes of the presidential contest. Analysts suggest that legislative backing could translate into critical support for Herminie’s candidacy.

Assumption Island Controversy Sparks Debate

A major flashpoint in the campaign has been the fate of Assumption Island, one of the most environmentally sensitive islands in the archipelago. Public unease has grown over its leasing to a foreign hotel developer, stirring debate about sovereignty and ecological stewardship. The issue could galvanize voters and attract the support of smaller opposition candidates, potentially tipping the scales in the run-off.

Smaller Candidates Hold Key Influence

While Herminie and Ramkalawan lead the race, the six other presidential hopefuls who fell short in the first round may now play kingmakers. Their endorsements, and the loyalties of their supporters, could prove decisive in determining the winner. Both main candidates are expected to court these voters aggressively in the coming days.

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Wealth Amid Political Transition

Seychelles is renowned for luxury tourism and pristine environmental resources. It is also Africa’s wealthiest nation per capita, according to the World Bank. However, beneath this reputation lies a population grappling with concerns over sustainable development, economic diversification, and the country’s independence in managing its natural heritage.

Run-Off Will Shape Nation’s Future

The October run-off is set to define the political trajectory of Seychelles for the next five years. With economic resilience, environmental responsibility, and national sovereignty on the ballot, the outcome will reverberate across the islands and influence the country’s global standing. Both Ramkalawan and Herminie now face the challenge of mobilizing their bases while appealing to undecided voters in a race too close to call.

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