Early presidential elections originally set for 2003 were called in August-September 2001. The government party (SPPF) once again prevailed, although the main opposition party, the Seychelles National Party--previously known as the United Opposition Party, headed by Wavel Ramkalawan--made a surprisingly strong showing and collected 46% of the total votes. The DP, headed by James Mancham, did not take part in the elections. Legislative elections held in December 2002 saw the SPPF retain a strong majority in the National Assembly, winning a total of 23 of the 34 seats. The SNP won 11.

During 2003, the President and the SPPF dominated the country through a pervasive system of political patronage, control over government jobs, contracts, and resources. The judiciary was inefficient, lacked resources, and was subject to executive interference. The government generally respected the human rights of its citizens; however, there were problems in some areas. President Rene and the SPPF continued to wield power virtually unchecked. Security forces detained citizens during weekends to avoid compliance with the constitution's 24-hour "charge or release" provision. The government sometimes infringed on citizens' privacy rights. There were some restrictions on freedom of the press. Women's rights were limited, and discrimination against foreign workers also was a problem.

Ministers
Education and Youth--Danny Faure
Local Government, Sports, and Culture--Sylvette Pool
Foreign Affairs--Patrick Pillay
Economic Planning and Employment--Jacquelin Dugasse
Environment and Natural Resources--Ronnie Jumeau
Health and Social Services--Vincent Meriton
Land Use and Habitat--Joel Morgan
Chief of Staff (Seychelles People's Defence Forces--SPDF)--Col. Leopold Payet
Judiciary--Chief Justice Vivekanand Alleear
Attorney General--Anthony Fernando
Commissioner of Police--Andre Quillindo
Ambassador to the U.S.--JÈrÈmie Bonnelame

The Seychelles Ambassador, resident in New York, is simultaneously accredited to the United Nations, the United States, and Canada.