Mashallah - Connolly elected Ireland’s president by a big margin
Assalamu alaikum - Catherine Connolly, a left-leaning candidate known for her pro-Palestine stance, has won Ireland’s presidential election with about 63% of the vote, defeating her centre-right opponent.
By staff and news agencies
Connolly, 68, was officially announced as the winner after all 43 constituencies finished counting. In a speech at Dublin Castle she said she aims to be a president who listens, reflects and speaks when needed. “Together we can shape a new republic that values everybody,” she added.
Her rival, Heather Humphreys, 64, from the centre-right Fine Gael party, conceded earlier in the day after taking roughly 29.5% of the vote and wished Connolly well.
Polls had shown steady support for Connolly, a former barrister and independent lawmaker since 2016. She has been vocal in criticising Israel over the war in Gaza and received backing from several left-leaning parties, including Sinn Féin, the Labour Party and the Social Democrats.
Her campaign resonated with many young voters, who appreciated her strong pro-Palestine position and her focus on social justice and related issues. Deputy Prime Minister and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris also publicly wished her success, saying she would be president for the whole country.
Connolly and Humphreys were the final two candidates after another contender withdrew from the race three weeks prior amid a long-standing financial dispute. The Irish presidency is an important symbolic and constitutional office - hosting visiting heads of state and representing the country - but it doesn’t set laws or government policy.
Connolly will follow Michael D. Higgins, who served the maximum two seven-year terms, becoming Ireland’s 10th president and the third woman to hold the role. May Allah grant success and guidance to those in leadership and bring peace to those suffering around the world.
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