Seychelles has witnessed a significant shift in power with the recent election of Patrick Herminie as president, marking a potential phase of stable power alternation in the country. Herminie’s victory over incumbent Wavel Ramkalawan has been seen as a setback for the latter, who had been hailed as a reformer after his 2020 win. The election result has drawn comparisons to the defeat of Lazarus Chakwera in Malawi, with both cases highlighting the challenges faced by opposition challengers in holding onto power.

Herminie’s United Seychelles party has regained control of the legislature, having previously lost to Ramkalawan’s coalition, Linyon Demokratik Seselwa. The party’s success can be attributed to its ability to raise allegations of corruption and environmental mismanagement against Ramkalawan, despite its own reputation for such excesses during its long tenure in power. The Seychelles benefits from having one of the most independent media sectors in Africa, which should help advance transparency and public accountability.

The election campaign focused on key issues such as environmental damage, drug addiction, and economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Herminie, a doctor and former head of the government’s anti-drug agency, had an edge on the drug issue, while Ramkalawan emphasized his management of the economy and expansion of social protections. The Qatar-funded hotel project near a UNESCO-listed coral atoll was a significant point of contention, with Herminie pledging to cancel it.

The outcome of the election may indicate that Seychelles has entered a phase of stable alternation of power, with voters expressing unhappiness with the incumbent in the hope that the other candidate could do a better job. The country’s high per-capita income and relatively low poverty rate suggest that economic issues may have played a significant role in the election. With the new government in place, it remains to be seen how Herminie will address the challenges facing the country, including environmental conservation, corruption, and economic growth.

The Seychelles’ experience may serve as a model for other African countries, highlighting the importance of independent media, anti-corruption efforts, and public accountability in advancing democratic governance. As the country moves forward, it will be essential to monitor the new government’s progress in addressing the issues that mattered most to voters, including the environment, economy, and social protections.