The Daily Star Ireland
Fine Gael MEP Seán Kelly has confirmed he will not seek his party’s nomination for the Irish presidency, bringing clarity to speculation about his political future as the race to succeed President Michael D. Higgins begins to take shape.
Kelly, who represents the Ireland South constituency in the European Parliament, had been considered a serious potential contender within Fine Gael. However, in a candid interview with RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, he announced his decision to step aside, calling it “the most difficult decision” of his political career.
Citing Personal Fulfillment and European Commitments
Explaining his reasoning, Kelly said he gave the possibility serious thought and consulted closely with his family—who, he noted, were “100%” supportive of whichever direction he chose. Ultimately, he concluded that remaining in his current role in the European Parliament would be more fulfilling than serving in what he described as a “largely ceremonial” presidential post.
“I asked myself if I would be happier continuing my work in Europe or spending seven years at Áras an Uachtaráin,” he said. “Perhaps not.”
Kelly emphasized his desire to stay engaged in active political affairs, suggesting that the limited executive powers of the presidency did not align with his aspirations for hands-on political involvement. “I like to be involved politically,” he said, “and the presidency doesn’t offer much power or influence in that regard.”
Political Landscape Begins to Form
Kelly’s withdrawal narrows the field for Fine Gael, with former European Commissioner Mairead McGuinness now emerging as the party’s most likely nominee. Kelly praised McGuinness as a strong candidate, adding that he would support her if she were chosen to represent Fine Gael.
“I think she’d be a very good prospect,” he said. “I, and all Fine Gael people, will certainly back her.”
Though he acknowledged that he would have welcomed a contested selection process within the party, Kelly noted that such a scenario would require more than one serious contender, which at this stage remains uncertain. “There’s still plenty of time,” he said, “let’s see how it pans out.”
Kelly added that he wanted to make his decision public now to give the party space to consider and nominate alternative candidates in a timely manner.
A Race Still in Its Early Stages
As the country prepares for the next presidential election, which is expected to take place later this year, only a few names have emerged. So far, former Fianna Fáil minister Mary Hanafin has expressed formal interest in running. Sinn Féin has said it has not ruled out nominating party leader Mary Lou McDonald, while broadcaster Joe Duffy has confirmed he is not considering entering the race.
With President Michael D. Higgins set to complete his second and final term, political parties are beginning to weigh their options carefully. The presidency, though largely symbolic, is seen as a prestigious office with the ability to shape national discourse and represent Ireland on the international stage.
Kelly’s decision removes a high-profile name from Fine Gael’s internal discussions, but it also clears a path for other candidates to step forward in the coming weeks.
