Mathew Antonio Patrick Herminie was officially sworn in on Sunday evening as the sixth President of the Republic of Seychelles during a national ceremony at Unity Stadium.
His inauguration marks the return to power for the United Seychelles (US) party, concluding five years of government by the outgoing administration of Wavel Ramkalawan.
Herminie secured his victory in the runoff elections held on October 9, 10, and 11, winning 52.7% of the valid votes against the incumbent Ramkalawan’s 47.3%. The election saw high participation, with 66,819 ballots cast out of 77,045 registered voters. Following the results, President Ramkalawan acknowledged his defeat, calling for “national unity and love of country.”
In his final official speech on Friday, October 24, former President Ramkalawan lauded the transition as “peaceful and exemplary.” He reviewed his term, highlighting significant economic and institutional achievements for the archipelago, including: An increase in national reserves from $559 million to $891 million. A reduction in public debt from 80.2% to 54.5% of GDP. Strong growth in the tourism sector, which generated $803 million in revenue during the first nine months of 2025.
President Herminie took the oath before the Honorable Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Rony Govinden, in a ceremony attended by citizens from Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue, as well as local and foreign dignitaries. The presence of Mr. Ramkalawan at the swearing-in testified to the country’s democratic maturity and continuity.
President Herminie inherits a nation whose political transition was conducted in peace and dignity, and he is now poised to lead the country’s continued economic and social development.
AC/fss/abj/APA