Ireland’s next president, Catherine Connolly, a left-wing independent lawmaker known for her outspoken support for Palestinians and criticism of European Union policies, won a decisive victory in Saturday’s election.
Connolly, 68, secured 63% of the vote, comfortably defeating her center-right rival and former Cabinet minister Heather Humphreys. Backed by Ireland’s left-leaning opposition parties, including Sinn Féin, Connolly is expected to be a vocal presence capable of challenging the center-right government, even though the Irish presidency is largely ceremonial.
While Irish presidents do not have executive powers to shape legislation, they represent the country internationally and often serve as a unifying voice on major issues. Connolly will succeed Michael D. Higgins, a popular president who has been outspoken on Gaza, NATO spending, and other global matters.
Connolly pledged to be “an inclusive president” who champions diversity and acts as “a voice for peace.”
From independent lawmaker to Ireland’s presidency
Connolly, a mother of two, has represented Galway West as an independent lawmaker since 2016, serving three terms. In 2020, she became the first woman to serve as deputy speaker of the lower house of Parliament.
Raised in a social housing estate in Galway as one of 14 children, Connolly lost her mother at age nine. Her father worked at a local shipyard. She volunteered with community and Catholic organizations during her student years. Connolly holds degrees in clinical psychology and law, and practiced as a lawyer before entering politics.
Her political journey began with the Labour Party when she was elected to Galway City Council in 1999, and she became Galway’s mayor in 2004. She left Labour in 2007 to continue as an independent politician.
Critical views on Israel and the EU
Connolly has been vocal about Israel’s actions in Gaza. In September, she faced criticism for describing Hamas as “part of the fabric of the Palestinian people,” and for her reluctance to immediately condemn the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attacks that triggered the two-year Israel-Hamas conflict. She later clarified that she “utterly condemned” Hamas’ actions while also criticizing Israel over what she described as a genocide in Gaza.
On Europe, Connolly has criticized the EU’s growing militarization after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, drawing historical comparisons to Nazi-era armament and questioning NATO expansion. She has emphasized Ireland’s military neutrality and opposed proposals to remove the “triple lock,” which governs the deployment of Irish troops on international missions.
Appeal to voters
Connolly’s message of social equality, inclusivity, and outspoken style has resonated with many, particularly younger voters. While she has pledged to respect the limits of the presidency, she has said she will speak out “when it’s necessary.”
“Together, we can shape a new republic that values everybody, champions diversity, and takes pride in our Irish identity, language, and new residents,” Connolly said during her acceptance speech at Dublin Castle.
Source: AP