The Seychelles presidential election has entered a critical phase as no candidate secured a decisive majority in the initial vote, prompting a runoff between the two leading contenders. Official results revealed that opposition leader Patrick Herminie garnered 48.8% of the vote, while incumbent President Wavel Ramkalawan secured 46.4%. To claim victory, a candidate must achieve over 50% of the vote. The runoff is scheduled for October 9-11, as announced by the electoral authority. Ramkalawan, seeking a second term, has called for a public debate with Herminie to assist voters in making an informed decision. He emphasized that the presidency belongs to the people, not to any individual. Herminie, representing the United Seychelles party, expressed confidence in winning the runoff, citing widespread dissatisfaction with the current administration. The United Seychelles party, which governed the country from 1977 to 2020, is attempting to regain power after losing it five years ago. Ramkalawan’s Linyon Demokratik Seselwa party has campaigned on promises of economic recovery, social development, and environmental sustainability. The election unfolds against a backdrop of growing opposition to the government, including a constitutional challenge against a controversial lease of Assomption Island to a Qatari company for luxury hotel development. Critics argue that the deal prioritizes foreign interests over national sovereignty. Additionally, Seychelles faces significant challenges, including vulnerability to climate change and a worsening heroin addiction crisis. With a population of 120,000, an estimated 6,000 people are heroin users, and addiction rates are alarmingly high. The election outcome will shape the future of this Indian Ocean archipelago, known for its luxury tourism and environmental significance.