Seychelles Kicks Off Early Voting Amid Drug Crisis and Environmental Concerns

Early voting commenced on March 28, 2024, across Seychelles as the nation grapples with significant concerns regarding a growing drug crisis and pressing environmental challenges. Citizens are preparing to elect a new president and parliament, with President Wavel Ramkalawan aiming to retain his position in this island nation, known for its stunning natural beauty and tourism appeal.

The election commission, led by Manuella Amesbury, facilitated the early voting process by flying ballot papers to the outer islands and establishing special polling stations for elderly voters and essential workers. The official presidential and parliamentary elections are scheduled for March 30, 2024.

Key Candidates and Campaign Issues

Wavel Ramkalawan, an Anglican priest who transitioned into politics, made history in 2020 when he became the first opposition leader since 1976 to defeat the ruling party in his sixth attempt for the presidency. This time, he seeks to build on his previous achievements by advocating for economic recovery, social development, and environmental sustainability through his party, Linyon Demokratik Seselwa.

His main challenger, Patrick Herminie, represents the long-established United Seychelles Party. Herminie is a seasoned politician, having served as the speaker of the National Assembly from 2007 to 2016. The president is elected for a five-year term, and if no candidate secures over 50% of the votes, a runoff will be held between the top two candidates.

Addressing the Drug Crisis

Seychelles faces a worsening drug crisis, as highlighted in a 2017 United Nations report which identified the country as a significant drug transit route. The Global Organized Crime Index revealed in 2023 that Seychelles has one of the highest rates of heroin addiction globally. An estimated 6,000 individuals out of a population of approximately 120,000 are reported to use heroin, with independent analysts suggesting that addiction rates may approach 10%.

Critics assert that Ramkalawan has not effectively managed the drug crisis. Herminie, previously the chairman of the country’s Agency for the Prevention of Drug Abuse and Rehabilitation from 2017 to 2020, has also faced criticism for his handling of addiction issues during his tenure. Gerald Edwin Julie, a former program manager at the agency, described it as “a political tool” under Herminie’s leadership, claiming he lacked the necessary knowledge to address drug addiction.

Environmental Concerns and Controversies

The 115-island archipelago is celebrated for its luxurious tourism and environmental conservation, earning Seychelles a prominent place among Africa’s wealthiest nations in terms of gross domestic product per capita, according to the World Bank. This economic growth has fostered a burgeoning middle class, contributing to rising opposition against the ruling party.

Just one week before the elections, activists initiated a constitutional challenge against the government’s decision to lease a portion of Assomption Island to a Qatari company for luxury hotel development. This lease, which includes the reconstruction of an airstrip to facilitate international flights, has sparked widespread criticism for allegedly prioritizing foreign interests over the long-term welfare of Seychelles and its sovereignty.

Assomption Island is located near the Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Environmental advocates have called for increased oversight and transparency regarding government decisions affecting Seychelles’ natural resources. Victoria Duthil, one of the activists behind the case against the government, stated, “The hotel development on Assomption has been clouded with controversy. Recent images of an injured tortoise and dredging have highlighted how urgent the situation is.” Dredging involves the removal of sediment from water bodies and can have detrimental effects on marine ecosystems.

Corruption Concerns Resurface

While Seychelles has made significant strides in development metrics and boasts the lowest corruption rankings in sub-Saharan Africa, memories of rampant corruption during the lengthy presidency of France-Albert Rene, which ended in 2004, linger among voters. Transparency issues have resurfaced during this election campaign, with candidate Kisna Louise under investigation and another candidate, Maarco Francis, facing allegations concerning a forged university degree.

Local businessman Jean Paul Maurel expressed disillusionment with the current candidates, stating, “There are no good candidates.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern among voters about the integrity and capabilities of those vying for leadership in Seychelles.

As Seychelles approaches its election date, the intertwining issues of drug addiction, environmental stewardship, and government transparency remain at the forefront of the national conversation, shaping the decisions of voters in this pivotal moment for the country.