Historic Victory: Patrick Herminie Elected President of Seychelles

Sun Oct 12 2025 19:31:54 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a remarkable turnaround, Patrick Herminie, the opposition leader, has won the presidential election in Seychelles, defeating the sitting president Wavel Ramkalawan with a promise to unite the nation and address pressing issues like the cost of living.

Patrick Herminie emerged victorious in Seychelles’ presidential run-off, securing 52.7% of the votes against incumbent Wavel Ramkalawan. In his acceptance speech, Herminie vowed to lower living costs, revive public services, and promote national unity. Ramkalawan congratulated him, leaving behind a notable legacy as the nation shifts political power following a heated campaign and past controversies.

In a historic election, Seychelles' main opposition leader Patrick Herminie has won the presidential elections, defeating incumbent Wavel Ramkalawan in a runoff vote, according to official results released by the electoral commission.

Herminie gained 52.7% of the vote, compared to Ramkalawan's 47.3%.

During his victory speech, Herminie pledged to reduce the cost of living, enhance public services, and unify the island nation, stating that this marked 'a new chapter for all Seychellois.'

After conceding the election, Ramkalawan congratulated Herminie, citing his 'legacy that makes many presidents blush.'

The election proceeded to a runoff as no candidate secured a majority in the initial round. A former parliamentary speaker, Herminie faced politically motivated charges of witchcraft in 2023, which were dismissed in 2024, enabling him to run for office.

'I will be the president of all Seychellois, and I will end divisions by ceasing preferences and giving everyone the opportunity to thrive,' Herminie affirmed in his acceptance speech.

This election marks a shift in Seychelles' political landscape, as Ramkalawan joins other African leaders who have lost recent elections amid rising dissatisfaction over growing living costs. Herminie's party, United Seychelles, won a decisive parliamentary majority last month, regaining control after previously losing it to Ramkalawan's Linyon Demokratik Seselwa.