Patrick Herminie Defeats Incumbent Wavel Ramkalawan to Become Seychelles’ New President

Patrick Herminie Claims Victory in Seychelles Presidential Election, Ending Ramkalawan’s Tenure

Victoria, Seychelles — In a stunning political shift, Patrick Herminie has emerged victorious in Seychelles’ presidential election, securing 52.7 percent of the vote and denying incumbent Wavel Ramkalawan a second term. The official results, announced by the electoral commission early Sunday, reflect a decisive choice by the Seychellois people in a closely watched run-off election.

Herminie, the leader of the United Seychelles party, addressed supporters at the electoral commission headquarters, expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him. “The people have spoken,” the 62-year-old declared, vowing to lower the cost of living, revive public services, and unite the nation. “I will be the president of all Seychellois, and I will end divisions by ceasing preferences, giving everyone the opportunity to thrive,” he added.

This victory not only marks a significant political comeback for Herminie, who previously served as speaker of parliament from 2007 to 2016 but also follows a tumultuous period that included his arrest in 2023 on charges of witchcraft, which were later dropped. His party’s control of the government is further solidified by their majority in parliament, reclaimed during the first round of the general election last month.

Incumbent Ramkalawan, who attended the announcement of the results, graciously congratulated Herminie, stating, “I leave with a legacy that makes many presidents blush… I hope President Herminie continues to maintain such a level.” Images from the event captured the two leaders shaking hands, a moment of mutual respect amid a competitive political landscape.

Outside the electoral commission, jubilant supporters of Herminie celebrated, waving flags and party banners as they welcomed their new leader. The atmosphere was electric, with videos circulating on social media showcasing the excitement of the crowd.

The election was necessitated by a run-off after no candidate achieved an outright majority in the initial vote two weeks prior. Early voting commenced on Thursday, with the majority of the electorate casting their ballots on Saturday. Both candidates campaigned vigorously, addressing pressing issues such as environmental concerns and a growing drug addiction crisis in the island nation.

While Ramkalawan highlighted his administration’s efforts in managing the economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and expanding social protections, voters ultimately favored Herminie. The new president criticized Ramkalawan’s administration for alleged corruption and pledged to halt a controversial hotel project that environmentalists argue threatens a UNESCO-listed coral atoll.

Herminie also aims to lower the retirement age from 65 to 63 and implement recommendations from a truth and reconciliation commission addressing human rights abuses stemming from a 1977 coup. As a trained physician and former head of the government’s anti-drug agency, he has committed to tackling the rampant heroin addiction plaguing the islands, which is exacerbated by their location along a drug trafficking route between Africa and Asia.

With a population of approximately 120,000, Seychelles is Africa’s wealthiest nation per capita, known for its stunning landscapes and as a prime tourist destination. The new administration will face the challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability and social welfare as it embarks on this new chapter in the nation’s history.