Catherine Connolly, a long-time advocate for Palestinian rights and independent left-wing politician, has been elected as Ireland’s president, marking her as the third woman to hold the office. Early results indicate she secured over 60% of the vote, defeating her sole rival Heather Humphreys of the centrist Fine Gael party. Connolly, 68, a former lawyer and member of parliament since 2016, expressed delight at her victory and gratitude to her supporters.

Connolly’s campaign focused on social justice, housing, workers’ rights, and a significant reduction in military spending. She has been a prominent voice in Ireland’s parliament calling for recognition of the Palestinian state and condemning the ongoing genocidal war in Gaza. During her campaign, she criticised both the European Union and the United States for failing to act decisively, pledging that if elected she would personally visit Palestine to witness the situation firsthand.

Her election signals a shift in Irish politics, as she was backed by a coalition of opposition parties including the Social Democrats, Labour, and Sinn Féin, which chose not to present a candidate. While her positions may create friction with the centre-right government, her decisive win reflects growing public support for progressive policies and international human rights advocacy, particularly in relation to the crisis in Gaza.