Incumbent President France-Albert René and his Seychelles People's Progressive Front won both elections with over 60% of the vote,[1] defeating a divided opposition.

On the 4 February 1998 it was announced that the presidential and parliamentary elections would be held at the same time in March.

[2] President René and his ruling Seychelles People's Progressive Front were expected to easily win the elections.

[3] René enjoyed strong support for introducing a social welfare system and benefited from the inability of the opposition to unite against him.

[5][6] The team was led by Sir John Compton, former Prime Minister of Saint Lucia.