In a significant advancement for democratic participation, the Seychelles National Assembly has approved a constitutional amendment allowing young citizens who turn 18 on election day to register and vote in national elections. This change, formalized through the Constitution of the Republic of Seychelles (Twelfth Amendment) Bill, was presented by Vice-President Ahmed Afif and aims to enhance youth engagement in the electoral process.
Previously, Seychellois citizens who reached the age of 18 after the closure of the voters’ register typically three months before an election were excluded from voting, even if they turned 18 on or before election day. The new amendment rectifies this by permitting these individuals to register and vote, thereby broadening the electorate and ensuring that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.
The amendment specifically modifies Articles 113 and 114 of the Constitution. Article 113 outlines the qualifications for voter registration, while Article 114 details the procedures for registration. By adjusting these articles, the amendment aligns the registration process with the updated criteria, facilitating the inclusion of young voters who attain the voting age close to or on election day.
This legislative change is part of a broader effort to modernize Seychelles’ electoral laws. In June 2025, the National Assembly also approved the Elections (Amendment) Bill, which introduced several reforms aimed at improving the transparency and efficiency of the electoral process. These reforms include measures to enhance voter registration accuracy, streamline the voting process, and ensure that election results are promptly and accurately reported.
The approval of the constitutional amendment has been met with widespread approval from youth organizations and political analysts, who view it as a positive step toward greater inclusivity in Seychelles’ democracy. By enabling young citizens to participate fully in elections, the amendment is expected to foster a more engaged and informed electorate, reflecting the diverse perspectives of the nation’s youth.
As Seychelles prepares for its upcoming elections, the implementation of this amendment is anticipated to have a significant impact on voter demographics and election outcomes. The inclusion of young voters is expected to influence campaign strategies, policy priorities, and the overall political discourse, as candidates and parties seek to address the issues most pertinent to the younger population.
In summary, the Seychelles National Assembly’s passage of the constitutional amendment marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s electoral history. By granting voting rights to youths turning 18 on election day, Seychelles is taking a decisive step toward a more inclusive and representative democracy, ensuring that all citizens have the opportunity to shape the future of their country.
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