Michael D. Higgins has confirmed he is running for a second term as president

President Michael D. Higgins has confirmed speculation that he will run for a second term as president later this year. He confirmed his position in a statement issued today.

The news, although widely expected, comes after the president had said that he would not seek a second term on the night of the 2011 election. But in recent years, his position seems to have shifted, perhaps due to the overwhelmingly positive public opinion of his presidency. An Ireland Thinks/ Irish Daily Mail survey in 2017 found that 76% of people said they wanted Higgins to serve a second term as president.

Now 77 years old, president Higgins will be 84 by the time his second term is completed.

A number of TD’s have previously made it clear that they would support Higgins if he chose to run for a second term. If all political parties support his decision, he may return unopposed to the presidency. However, other candidates may still come forward, which would force another election.

The statement in full is as follows:

“President Michael D. Higgins wishes to confirm that he will be offering himself as an independent candidate, under Article 12.4.4 of Bunreacht Na hÉireann, when the Ministerial Order for a Presidential Election is made later in the year.

“The Government has been informed of this decision.

“The President’s programme of official duties and engagements continues.”