🔗 Share this article Seychelles' Main Opposition Candidate Secures Presidency Election Patrick Herminie (right) pledges unity following a hard-fought electoral contest Patrick Herminie, the principal opposition figure in Seychelles, has emerged victorious in the presidential race, defeating incumbent Wavel Ramkalawan in a second-round ballot, according to official results released by the electoral commission. Herminie secured 52.7 percent of the ballots cast, compared with Ramkalawan's 47.3%. During his acceptance address, Herminie vowed to reduce living expenses, restore public sector operations, and bring together the island country, saying the result marked "a new chapter for all Seychellois". Following his unsuccessful attempt at re-election, Ramkalawan congratulated Herminie on his victory, saying he leaves "a legacy that makes many presidents blush". The election went to a run-off after neither candidate won an outright majority in the first round two weeks ago. A former parliamentary speaker, Herminie was charged with witchcraft in 2023 in what he described as a politically driven effort to block his presidential aspirations. The charges were dropped in 2024, paving the way for 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 stated during his victory address. Ramkalawan is the latest incumbent to lose elections in Africa, with Malawi's President Lazarus Chakwera voted out of power last month amid growing discontent with the rising cost of living. Herminie's party, United Seychelles (US), won parliamentary elections with a solid majority last month, regaining control after previously losing it to Rakalawan's Linyon Demokratik Seselwa (LDS). Key Points from the Electoral Process Patrick Herminie secured the presidency in the runoff, capturing 52.7 percent support Sitting president Wavel Ramkalawan acknowledged his loss following the official announcement Herminie has pledged to address cost of living and public services The election required a second round after no clear winner emerged initially Herminie previously faced witchcraft charges that were later dropped