Wavel Ramkalawan vs Yair Lapid

Ramkalawan served as Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly for multiple terms, representing the Seychelles National Party (SNP). He was a vocal critic of the France-Albert Ren

Wavel Ramkalawan won the presidential election with 54% of the vote, defeating incumbent Danny Faure. He became the first opposition candidate to win the presidency since Seychelles' independence in 1976. His victory ended 43 years of rule by the socialist-leaning Parti Lepep.

Ramkalawan's government implemented economic reforms to revive Seychelles' tourism-dependent economy after the COVID-19 pandemic. Measures included debt restructuring, fiscal consolidation, and promoting foreign investment. The economy recovered but with social costs.

Ramkalawan's government was criticized by media freedom groups for actions against journalists, including the arrest of a reporter. Critics argued that despite democratic change, press freedom did not improve significantly under his administration.

Ramkalawan spoke at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26), urging global action on climate change. He highlighted Seychelles' vulnerability to rising sea levels and pushed for climate finance. His advocacy raised Seychelles' profile on climate issues.

Lapid founded the centrist Yesh Atid party, entering politics after a career as a journalist and TV host. The party focused on social and economic issues, including ending ultra-Orthodox military exemptions.

Lapid served as Minister of Finance from 2013 to 2014 under Prime Minister Netanyahu. He implemented economic reforms including tax cuts and housing measures, but faced criticism over budget deficits.

Lapid became Prime Minister in July 2022 as part of a rotation agreement with Naftali Bennett. He served until November 2022, when elections brought Benjamin Netanyahu back to power.

As opposition leader, Lapid led protests and parliamentary opposition against the Netanyahu government's judicial reform plan, which critics said would weaken the Supreme Court and democratic checks.