Seychelles Opposition Leader Wins Presidential Runoff Election

11 HOURS AGO·UPDATED 4 HOURS AGO

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Above: Patrick Herminie prepares to cast his vote at a polling station in Victoria, Seychelles, on Sept. 27, 2025. Image copyright: Han Xu/Xinhua/Getty Images

The Spin

Narrative A

Herminie's victory highlights a clear mandate from the people to tackle Seychelles' most pressing challenges. The new president promises to lower living costs, revive public services and end the dangerous Qatari interference that threatens national sovereignty. His experience heading the anti-drug agency positions him perfectly to address the heroin crisis plaguing up to 10% of the population.

France 24 africaguinee.com

Narrative B

The election results show a deeply divided nation. Opposition to the previous government grew primarily over environmental concerns about the Assumption Island development, not genuine enthusiasm for Herminie's leadership. Activists successfully mobilized voters around protecting Seychelles' sovereignty and natural heritage from foreign exploitation. Seychelles teeters on instability as Herminie topples a seasoned president.

Al Jazeera Africanews