National Assembly Passes Landmark Bill Granting Voting Rights to Youths Turning 18 in Election Year
Victoria, Seychelles — In a significant step toward expanding democratic participation, the National Assembly has passed the Constitution of the Republic of Seychelles (Twelfth Amendment) Bill, 2025—Bill No. 7 of 2025—which ensures that citizens who turn 18 during an election year will have the constitutional right to vote.
The bill was approved on Wednesday morning with 24 members voting in favour and eight abstaining. It addresses a longstanding procedural gap that previously barred individuals from voting if their 18th birthday fell just after the official voter registration deadline—effectively disenfranchising first-time voters based solely on timing.
The new amendment guarantees that all Seychellois who reach voting age during an election year will be recognized as eligible voters, aligning the Constitution with the principle of inclusive suffrage and enhancing youth participation in the democratic process.
Lawmakers who supported the bill hailed it as a progressive reform that strengthens the electoral system and encourages civic engagement among young people. The move is expected to have a direct impact in the upcoming 2025 elections.
Electoral officials have welcomed the amendment, noting that it provides legal clarity and ensures fairness for thousands of young citizens who are often among the most enthusiastic first-time voters.
