Opposition Leader Patrick Herminie Wins Seychelles Presidential Run-off

Patrick Herminie, the leader of the opposition, triumphed in the presidential run-off in the Seychelles on October 29, 2023. According to the election commission, Herminie secured 52.7 percent of the vote, defeating the outgoing president, Wavel Ramkalawan, who garnered 47.3 percent. This election was marked by significant concerns regarding environmental issues and economic conditions affecting the Indian Ocean archipelago.

Herminie’s victory speech emphasized his commitment to reducing the cost of living, revitalizing public services, and fostering unity among the Seychellois. “I will be the president of all Seychellois, and I will end divisions by ceasing preferences and giving everyone the opportunity to thrive,” he stated. This marks an important shift in leadership, as Herminie becomes the sixth president of Seychelles since its independence in 1976.

The election required a run-off after neither candidate achieved an outright majority in the initial round held last month. Ramkalawan, who has previously led the opposition from 1998 to 2011 and again from 2015 to 2020, congratulated Herminie, reflecting on his own legacy. “I leave with a legacy that makes many presidents blush… I hope President Herminie continues to maintain such a level,” he remarked.

Political Landscape and Challenges Ahead

Herminie’s party, United Seychelles, has been a dominant force in the nation’s politics, winning 15 out of 26 seats in the recent parliamentary elections. His political journey has not been without controversy; earlier in 2023, he faced charges of “witchcraft,” which he dismissed as a politically motivated attack. These charges were later dropped.

Trained as a physician, Herminie previously led the government’s anti-drug agency. He has pledged to address the serious issue of heroin addiction, which affects a significant portion of the population. The country’s Agency for Prevention of Drug Abuse and Rehabilitation estimates that between 5,000 and 6,000 individuals use heroin out of a total population of around 120,000, with some estimates suggesting the number could be as high as 10,000.

Environmental concerns have also played a central role in the recent electoral climate. A contentious lease agreement for Assumption Island, which allows for the construction of a luxury hotel by Qatari investors, has sparked widespread public outrage. The island, located approximately 40 kilometers from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aldabra Atoll, is home to critical marine biodiversity, including the world’s largest tortoise population.

Herminie has committed to cancelling the 70-year lease for the hotel, arguing that it threatens the ecological integrity of the region. He has also accused Qatari companies of interfering in Seychellois politics by allegedly financing the ruling party’s campaign.

Socioeconomic Context and Future Outlook

Despite having the highest wealth per capita in Africa at around $18,000, according to the World Bank, the Seychelles faces pressing challenges. Climate change poses a significant threat, with rising sea levels leading to flooding, landslides, and the deterioration of vital marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. The majority of the population resides on Mahe Island, where the capital, Victoria, is located.

As Herminie begins his presidency, the need for comprehensive strategies to address both economic and environmental issues will be critical. His administration will need to navigate these complex challenges while honoring his campaign promises to unify and uplift the Seychellois people. The actions taken in the coming months will not only define his presidency but also shape the future of the Seychelles as it confronts both local and global pressures.