Oskar O'Sullivan Elected Uachtarán na hÉireann

Oskar O'Sullivan has been elected as Ireland's next President, securing a commanding victory with 54% of first preference votes in a three-way contest that concluded at Dublin Castle in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Electoral Commissioner Lynette Ní Catháin officially declared the results at a packed Dublin Castle event, confirming O'Sullivan's election after all 154 votes across eight constituencies were counted. The independent candidate's victory represents one of the most decisive presidential election wins in recent Irish political history.

RTÉ's live coverage projected O'Sullivan's victory shortly after midnight when it became mathematically certain that he had secured enough first preference votes to win outright on the first count, eliminating the need for vote transfers under Ireland's Single Transferable Vote system.

Victory Speech at Dublin Castle

President-elect Oskar O'Sullivan addresses supporters at Dublin Castle following his election victory

Speaking to jubilant supporters at Dublin Castle, President-elect O'Sullivan delivered an impassioned victory speech pledging to be "a President for all of Ireland" and promising to work tirelessly to unite the nation.

"Tonight, the people of Ireland have spoken with a clear and decisive voice," O'Sullivan told the packed room. "This is not just my victory – this is a victory for every Irish citizen who believes in the power of independent leadership, who believes that we can build a better, more inclusive Ireland together."

The President-elect thanked his campaign team, volunteers, and supporters across all eight constituencies, acknowledging the "tireless work" that made his historic victory possible.

"I stand before you tonight humbled and honored by the trust you have placed in me," O'Sullivan continued. "As your President, I pledge to serve with integrity, compassion, and dedication. I will be a voice for the voiceless, a champion for our communities, and a guardian of our democratic values."

Declaration at Dublin Castle

Electoral Commissioner Lynette Ní Catháin officially declares the presidential election results at Dublin Castle

Electoral Commissioner Lynette Ní Catháin presided over the official declaration ceremony, announcing the verified results from all constituencies. The Electoral Commission confirmed that the election was conducted fairly and transparently, with no significant irregularities reported.

"I am pleased to declare that Oskar O'Sullivan, having received 83 first preference votes and thereby exceeding the quota of 78 votes, has been duly elected as Uachtarán na hÉireann," Ní Catháin announced to applause from the assembled crowd.

The Electoral Commissioner praised all three candidates for conducting dignified campaigns and thanked the thousands of volunteers who ensured the smooth operation of polling stations across the country.

Concession Speeches

Viktoriya O'Cullane concedes defeat and congratulates President-elect O'Sullivan

Independent candidate Viktoriya O'Cullane, who finished third with 17.5% of first preference votes, was the first to concede defeat. Speaking to supporters at her campaign headquarters, O'Cullane congratulated O'Sullivan on his victory and pledged her support for the incoming President.

Tomás Uítheachair concedes and pledges unity moving forward

Independent candidate Tomás Uítheachair, who secured second place with 28.6% of first preference votes, delivered a gracious concession speech acknowledging O'Sullivan's "impressive mandate" from the Irish people.

"Democracy has spoken, and the people have chosen Oskar O'Sullivan as our next President," Uítheachair stated. "I offer him my sincere congratulations and my full support as he assumes this great office. While we may have differed on some issues during the campaign, we are united in our love for Ireland and our commitment to its future."

Uítheachair thanked his supporters, particularly in Dublin South where he secured a plurality of votes, and expressed hope that the issues raised during his campaign would continue to be addressed by the new administration.

Historic Election Night

RTÉ commentator provides live map result during election night on 13 December, 2025.

The atmosphere at Dublin Castle was electric throughout the night as results poured in from constituencies across Ireland. RTÉ's live coverage began at 7:50 PM on Saturday evening, ten minutes before polls closed, with continuous updates as each count was declared.

O'Sullivan built an early lead after strong showings in Connacht (60.7%), Dublin North (73.1%), and Midlands-North Leinster (92.9%). While Uítheachair won Dublin South with 48.3% of first preferences and tied with O'Sullivan in Ulster, and O'Cullane secured victory in Shannon (42.9%), O'Sullivan's consistent performance across all constituencies proved decisive.

The election saw a turnout of 154 votes across eight constituencies, with all regions reporting 100% of votes counted by the early hours of Sunday morning. The smooth conduct of the election and the decisive result were widely praised by political observers and international monitors.

This is a developing story. We will continue to update as the Presidential transition process unfolds.