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, in the western Indian Ocean, possesses little at first glance that would excite even the most adventurous travelers.
Stripped almost bare and blisteringly hot, with few man-made structures, it covers an area similar to London's Heathrow Airport and is arguably only slightly more scenic. Yet this tropical island anomaly — geographically remote and far from the popular ideal of lush paradise — has become a hotspot for geopolitical powers and environmental advocates, alongside a political lightning rod in Seychelles, the country that owns it.
Situated 1,140 km from Seychelles' populous main island, tourist-friendly Mahé, Assumption Island is a coralline archipelago endowed with immense strategic value. Once ravaged for its nitrogen-rich guano, its ecological significance and location now make it invaluable.
The island lies near significant shipping lanes, often referred to as this century’s Silk Road, raising concerns about foreign influence. The Qatari royal family's current venture in developing luxury accommodations there has sparked controversy among Seychellois, who are protective of their sovereignty and environment. Environmentalists are particularly worried as Assumption Island is critical for conservation, being a part of the UNESCO-listed Aldabra atoll ecosystem.
As Seychelles approaches the polls, President Wavel Ramkalawan pledges to prevent foreign military expansion while navigating the demands of economic development. His primary opponent, Dr. Patrick Herminie, criticizes the president's deal with Qatar, suggesting that it compromises national integrity and environmental protections. The upcoming elections are not simply a political contest but are deeply entwined with the aspirations of the Seychellois people for a sustainable future and transparent governance.
Stripped almost bare and blisteringly hot, with few man-made structures, it covers an area similar to London's Heathrow Airport and is arguably only slightly more scenic. Yet this tropical island anomaly — geographically remote and far from the popular ideal of lush paradise — has become a hotspot for geopolitical powers and environmental advocates, alongside a political lightning rod in Seychelles, the country that owns it.
Situated 1,140 km from Seychelles' populous main island, tourist-friendly Mahé, Assumption Island is a coralline archipelago endowed with immense strategic value. Once ravaged for its nitrogen-rich guano, its ecological significance and location now make it invaluable.
The island lies near significant shipping lanes, often referred to as this century’s Silk Road, raising concerns about foreign influence. The Qatari royal family's current venture in developing luxury accommodations there has sparked controversy among Seychellois, who are protective of their sovereignty and environment. Environmentalists are particularly worried as Assumption Island is critical for conservation, being a part of the UNESCO-listed Aldabra atoll ecosystem.
As Seychelles approaches the polls, President Wavel Ramkalawan pledges to prevent foreign military expansion while navigating the demands of economic development. His primary opponent, Dr. Patrick Herminie, criticizes the president's deal with Qatar, suggesting that it compromises national integrity and environmental protections. The upcoming elections are not simply a political contest but are deeply entwined with the aspirations of the Seychellois people for a sustainable future and transparent governance.
