Veteran lawmaker Catherine Connolly appeared set to become Ireland’s next president on Saturday after early vote tallies showed her holding a commanding lead, prompting rival parties to concede defeat.
Connolly, 68, an independent parliamentarian from County Galway and a long-time critic of the European Union, emerged as the unexpected frontrunner in a race that initially drew little national attention. By mid-morning, preliminary counts indicated a decisive advantage over her remaining challenger, centre-right Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys.
“It does appear likely that Catherine Connolly will be elected, and we now move on to the job of working with her as a government,” said Higher Education Minister James Lawless of Fianna Fáil, whose own party’s candidate had withdrawn early in the campaign.
Education Minister Helen McEntee of Fine Gael also acknowledged Connolly’s likely victory, while Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik, who helped rally Ireland’s left-wing opposition behind Connolly, said it was “almost certain” she would become the country’s 10th president.
Connolly, a former clinical psychologist and barrister, was first elected to parliament in 2016 and currently serves as deputy speaker of the Dáil, Ireland’s lower house. Known for her progressive positions and independent streak, she campaigned on social equality, neutrality in foreign policy, and greater accountability for government institutions.
In brief remarks at her local count centre in Galway, Connolly thanked supporters and pledged to serve all citizens. “I will do my utmost to represent not only those who voted for me, but also those who did not,” she told national broadcaster RTE.
Ireland’s presidency is largely ceremonial, though the officeholder has limited constitutional powers, including the ability to refer legislation to the Supreme Court. A final official result is expected later on Saturday, confirming Connolly as the successor to incumbent President Michael D. Higgins.
Source: Reuters
Written By Rodney Mbua
