The Political Battle Over Assumption Island: A Critical Vote for Seychelles' Future

Wed Oct 22 2025 01:29:22 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As Seychelles heads to the polls, Assumption Island's fate intertwines with the nation's political climate, raising environmental and geopolitical stakes.

Amidst the backdrop of Seychelles' presidential elections, Assumption Island has emerged as a pivotal issue, reflecting concerns over foreign influence, environmental protection, and national pride. With the current administration facing pressure from conservationists and an opposition eager to challenge its actions, the outcome of the vote could dramatically reshape the nation's policies.

A tiny, almost barren island in the Indian Ocean has become a battleground in this weekend's elections in Seychelles, prompting global environmental concern.

Assumption Island, located 1,140 km from the tourist-friendly Mahé, has become embroiled in geopolitics and environmental preservation debates. Although it appears unremarkable with its scorched landscape, the island's strategic positioning along key shipping lanes has made it a point of interest for various global powers, provoking a strong response from local environmental advocates.

The island is also at the center of a controversial lease agreement with the Qatari royal family to build a luxurious resort, raising alarms among conservationists about its impact on the local ecology, particularly the green turtle nesting beaches and its proximity to the UNESCO-listed Aldabra atoll.

Current President Wavel Ramkalawan insists that national interests take precedence, echoing public sentiment against allowing foreign military installations on Seychellois soil. However, the lease agreement has stirred dissent amid accusations of corruption and environmental negligence, putting the government’s standing in jeopardy.

The upcoming elections, which feature eight candidates vying for the presidency and 26 seats in the National Assembly, will serve as a litmus test for the people's commitment to environmental matters against economic development. The shadow of Assumption Island looms large as both the ruling party and opposition candidates confront challenges related to governance and public trust.

How Seychellois voters respond to these pressing issues could not only define the course of environmental stewardship in the region but also shape the geopolitics of the Indian Ocean.