Seychelles’ main opposition leader Patrick Herminie won the presidential election, defeating incumbent Wavel Ramkalawan in the second round, according to official results released by the electoral commission.
Herminie won 52.7% of the vote, compared to Ramkalawan’s 47.3%.
In his victory speech, Herminie promised to reduce the cost of living, revive public services and unite the island nation, saying the result marked “a new chapter for all Seychellois”.
After losing his bid for a second term, Ramkalawan congratulated Herminie on his victory, saying he leaves “a legacy that makes many presidents blush.”
The election went to a second round after none of the candidates obtained an absolute majority in the first round two weeks ago.
Former speaker of parliament, Herminie was accused of witchcraft in 2023, in what he said was a politically motivated attempt to thwart his presidential ambitions.
The charges were dropped in 2024, clearing the way for him to run for office.
“I will be the president of all Seychellois and end divisions, ending preferences and giving everyone the opportunity to prosper,” said Herminie in his victory speech.
Ramkalawan is the latest president to lose elections in Africa, with Malawi’s president, Lazarus Chakwera, being removed from power last month, amid growing discontent with the rising cost of living.
Herminie’s party, United Seychelles (USA), won parliamentary elections with a solid majority last month, regaining control after previously losing it to Rakalawan’s Linyon Demokratik Seselwa (LDS).
Leave a Reply