Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan has officially declared his bid for reelection in the upcoming October 2025 polls, positioning his campaign on the strength of the nation’s ongoing economic recovery.
Ramkalawan, who has led the Indian Ocean archipelago since 2020, highlighted his administration’s handling of the COVID-19 fallout and subsequent fiscal reforms as proof of steady progress. As reported by Bloomberg, Seychelles has experienced a notable rebound in its tourism-driven economy, which contracted sharply during the pandemic but has since regained momentum.
The president’s party, Linyon Demokratik Seselwa, emphasized that the government’s policies have not only stabilized foreign reserves but also attracted new investments in renewable energy and the blue economy. Figures from the World Bank indicate that Seychelles recorded GDP growth of 4.5 percent in 2023, with projections suggesting continued expansion into 2025.
Still, challenges remain. As highlighted by the International Monetary Fund, Seychelles continues to grapple with high debt levels and vulnerability to global shocks due to its reliance on tourism. Opposition parties have argued that while the economic outlook shows promise, persistent inequality and rising living costs are pressing concerns that the current administration has yet to fully address.
With elections scheduled for October, Ramkalawan’s campaign will likely focus on consolidating recent economic gains while defending his government’s record against opposition criticism. Observers suggest the vote could become a key test of whether Seychellois voters prioritize stability or seek a shift in leadership.
