Residents of Saint Helena are voting today, September 3, 2025, in a general election to determine the 12 members of the island's Legislative Council. The election marks a key democratic exercise for the remote British Overseas Territory, with polling stations open across the island for registered voters.

The election follows the constitutional requirement for a new council to be formed every four years. The previous Legislative Council was officially dissolved on June 30, 2025, paving the way for today's vote. The election proceeded after more than 12 valid nominations for candidates were received by the deadline on Nomination Day, August 20.

A distinctive feature of Saint Helena's political landscape is the absence of political parties. All candidates contest the election as independents. The island uses a plurality block voting system, where each voter can cast up to 12 votes, selecting their preferred candidates to fill the 12 available seats on the council.

Eligibility to vote is determined by the updated Register of Electors, which became effective on July 1, 2025. This register is the definitive list of individuals permitted to vote, stand for election, or support a candidate's nomination. To ensure inclusivity, provisions were made for proxy voting. Registered voters unable to cast their ballot in person due to illness, physical incapacity, or being off-island had the opportunity to nominate a trusted individual to vote on their behalf.

To ensure the integrity and fairness of the electoral process, an Election Observation Mission is present on the island. The mission is organized by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association British Islands and Mediterranean Region (CPA BIMR) and comprises parliamentarians and officials from across the Commonwealth. Their role is to observe all aspects of the election and provide an impartial assessment of the proceedings.

With voting now underway, the results are expected to be announced in the coming days. The 12 successful candidates will form the new Legislative Council, which is responsible for passing laws and holding the executive to account for the governance of Saint Helena.