The stage is set for a pivotal moment in Seychelles’ history as the nation prepares for its Presidential Elections on September 27, 2025. Amid growing calls for change, two candidates are stepping forward with a bold vision for transparency, unity, and pragmatic leadership.
Alain St.Ange, a distinguished figure in Seychelles’ political and economic development, has officially announced his independent candidacy for President, with Daniella Payet as his Vice Presidential running mate. Together, they aim to usher in a new era of inclusive governance, breaking away from the constraints of traditional party politics. St.Ange and Payet were prompted to enter the political arena following pressure from the business community, urging them to bring their expertise and leadership to Seychelles at this critical juncture.
A Nation at a Crossroads
Seychelles is currently facing unparalleled economic challenges. The nation’s tourism sector, the backbone of its economy, is struggling. This downturn is rippling across supporting industries – destination management companies, taxi operators, car hire companies, restaurants, guides, and ferries – impacting livelihoods and economic stability. Visitor arrival figures continue to drop, signalling the urgency for real solutions.
Adding to the economic strain, Seychellois citizens are battling soaring living costs. High electricity rates and landing fees imposed on locals using jetty services on Praslin and La Digue have further burdened the population. Meanwhile, social challenges are becoming more pronounced, with poverty giving rise to systemic issues and increasing pressures on law enforcement, health care, and education.
St Ange and Payet believe that the current issues call for urgent, unbiased action – free from the constraints of traditional party politics.
They are advocating for a new era of governance focused on dismantling systems that prioritise personal and partisan interests over the common good. By rejecting party politics, they aim to address issues with transparency, fairness, and accountability. This approach seeks to create a government that listens to its citizens, values merit over connections and prioritises national development. Their vision for Seychelles relies on collaboration and genuine public engagement to build a prosperous, inclusive future.
The Power of an Independent Movement
Alain St.Ange and Daniella Payet are leading a movement for inclusive governance. Their campaign is supported by a coalition of independent candidates under the banner of Lalyans Nouvo Sesel (Alliance for a New Seychelles).
By running independently, St.Ange and Payet pledge to prioritise the interests of the people over party loyalties, enabling elected representatives to vote in the National Assembly based on national interests rather than party mandates.
READ: Africa: Goodbye 2024, Welcome 2025: Reflections and Aspirations by Alain St. Ange
“Seychellois should be allowed to choose their representatives based on merit, not party allegiance,” St.Ange affirmed, reinforcing his commitment to a transparent, people-first government.
A Vision for Progress
Alain St.Ange brings over five decades of experience in both public service and the private sector. He is a globally renown tourism expert, with samples of his many accolades including the “Mahatma Ghandi Award”, the “Global Achievers Award”, and the “Lifetime Achievement Award for Promotion of the Travel Trade” at ITB in Berlin. His expertise in tourism will be central to reviving the industry and restoring economic stability.
Daniella Payet, a seasoned tourism professional, has experience as a Tour Operator in France and is now a successful local entrepreneur in Seychelles’ hospitality sector. She is also a decorated tourism leader in her own right, with the following recognitions under her belt: Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government (2017) and the Continental Award for the African Continent for Tourism & Leisure. She is also the owner of a leading private clinic, bringing both business acumen and medical industry experience to enhance the local healthcare system.
Unlike traditional political figures, St.Ange and Payet have pledged to serve only a single term, focusing solely on meaningful reforms without the distractions of personal or party-driven agendas.
A New Future for Seychelles
The St.Ange-Payet candidacy presents a clear alternative to traditional politics. By empowering independent representatives, Seychelles can transition to a governance model that genuinely reflects the will of its people rather than the dictates of political parties.
In the last elections, Seychellois proved they were ready for change. However, that change was driven by a desire for something different, rather than a clear vision for the future. Now, Seychellois have the opportunity to decide what kind of change is right – for themselves, their families, and the country as a whole.
Join the Movement
Alain St.Ange and Daniella Payet, alongside a coalition of independent candidates, invite Seychellois to participate in a transformative movement. The 2025 Presidential Elections offer an opportunity to redefine leadership and forge a prosperous, inclusive future for Seychelles.
