Seychelles Votes Out President Who Led Post-Pandemic Revival

VICTORIA, Seychelles / October 11, 2025 — In a dramatic shift, opposition leader Patrick Herminie clinched victory in the presidential runoff, defeating incumbent Wavel Ramkalawan. Herminie secured 52.7 % of votes to Ramkalawan’s 47.3 %. 

Ramkalawan, first elected in 2020, had championed Seychelles’ economic rebound after the pandemic. He credited his administration with restoring low inflation (below 2 %), infrastructure improvements, and raising minimum wages. 

But his tenure was not without controversy. Near the end of his term, critics challenged a lease of Assumption Island to a Qatari firm, citing concerns over sovereignty and environmental consequences. 

Herminie’s win is both a comeback and a continuity play. His United Seychelles party once dominated politics before 2020; he now leads it back into power. 

What This Means

Policy reset likely. Herminie has pledged to revisit controversial deals, combat corruption, and alleviate high living costs.  Institutional balance to shift. With legislative gains by his party, Herminie may inherit a more aligned parliament.  Tourism & environment still pivotal. Seychelles’ economic health remains tethered to its status as a luxury and ecological destination — Herminie must protect this while navigating complex external pressures.