VICTORIA, Seychelles — International electoral observation missions have released their preliminary statements on the conduct of the Presidential and National Assembly elections in Seychelles, held on September 25, 26 and 27, 2025, generally welcoming the process as credible and well-organised.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) presented its preliminary statement at the Eden Bleu Hotel on Monday. The SEOM, led by Justice Andrew K.C. Nyirenda, SC, deployed 79 personnel, including 64 observers from eight SADC member states: Botswana, Eswatini, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Observers were assigned to 25 of Seychelles’ 26 electoral areas.
The SEOM noted that the elections were conducted in a calm, peaceful and orderly atmosphere before, during and after voting, with campaign activities free of interference. The mission acknowledged that the Seychelles Defence Forces were not deployed, addressing stakeholder concerns about potential voter intimidation. Some concerns were raised over the nomination process and the time allocated for the commission to address complaints.
Meanwhile, the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) Mission Électorale, led by André Parant, also presented its preliminary report on Monday. After meeting with a wide range of stakeholders, including the Supreme Court, the Media Commission and political parties, the mission gave a generally positive assessment, noting that the electoral framework guarantees democratic elections and that voting took place in a calm and peaceful climate.
