Independent left-wing candidate Katherine Connolly has won the Irish presidential election with a decisive result, securing approximately 64% of the votes, according to preliminary results.
Her opponent, Heather Humphreys of Fine Gael, conceded defeat and congratulated Connolly on her victory. “Catherine will be a president for all of us, and she will be my president, and I truly wish her all the best,” Humphreys said, reports The Guardian.
Connolly, 68, has been a vocal critic of EU and US foreign policy and has expressed concerns about rising EU military spending. She received support from a left-wing alliance including Labour and Sinn Féin. Her campaign focused on economic justice and critiquing the government’s housing policies. While the presidency in Ireland is largely ceremonial, Connolly’s win is seen as a potential signal for change in Irish politics.
After the victory, Connolly expressed she was “absolutely delighted” with the results and thanked all her supporters, including those who did not vote for her. She emphasized the importance of representing everyone in her role as president.
This victory marks a significant turning point in Irish politics, reflecting growing support for left-wing policies and a desire for change in governance.
