Opposition political leaders have taken up senior roles in the Seychelles government this week following the 2025 presidential election.
Former presidential candidate for Lalyans Nouvo Sesel Alain St Ange has been appointed ambassador-at-large. At the same time, now former leader of Lalyans Nouvo Sesel Godfra Hermitte has been sworn in as Commissioner of Police. President Patrick Herminie made both appointments.
Both men are linked to Lalyans Nouvo Sesel. The party supported now President of Seychelles, Mr Herminie in the second round of the 2025 presidential election, which he won.
The National Assembly debated Mr St Ange’s nomination on Wednesday 25 March. Mrs Sylvanne Lemiel, Leader of Government Business, presented the motion. The motion asked members to approve the nomination proposed by the president.
Mr St Ange thanked the president for the appointment. He said, “It is a privilege.” He outlined his political career, including his time as an elected member of the National Assembly in the opposition and as a minister.
He said his experience, especially in tourism, would support the country’s main economic sector. He added, “Age is not a limitation. It remains an asset.”
Mr St Ange also called for a bipartisan approach. He said his role goes beyond politics and focuses on national interest. He referred to sharing knowledge and linking past experience with future development.
Government members voted to approve the motion. However, opposition members in the National Assembly, who are in the minority, voted against the appointment.
Earlier in the week, Godfra Hermitte took the oath of office as Commissioner of Police after his appointment by the president. The ceremony took place at State House and included the Oath of Allegiance to the Constitution and the Official Oath. It also included the conferring of his Commissioner’s insignia and the first salute from the Guard of Honour. Mr Hermitte is the 15th Commissioner to lead the Seychelles Police Force.