For the first time in over a year, Ireland will witness a contested Presidential Election, as three distinguished political figures have successfully secured nominations from the Electoral Commission and the requisite seven members of the Oireachtas. What unfolds is not merely an election, but a defining moment in our community's democratic evolution.
The campaigns launched this week represent decades of combined service to Ireland—spanning executive leadership, legislative stewardship, military command, and diplomatic representation. Each candidate brings a unique vision for the presidency, and their collective experience presents voters with an extraordinary choice on December 13th.
🤝 Viktoriya O'Cullane: The Candidate of Unity and Bipartisanship
Viktoriya O'Cullane
"Don Uachtaránacht" - For the Presidency
Viktoriya O'Cullane's campaign announcement positions her as the candidate who can bridge Ireland's political divide—a claim rooted in an extraordinary track record of legislative leadership and military service.
Serving as Ceann Comhairle during the 15th, 16th, and 17th Oireachtas, and then as Cathaoirleach from the 23rd through the 29th Oireachtas, O'Cullane has presided over some of Ireland's most contentious legislative sessions with fairness and authority. Her tenure spanned multiple governments, party configurations, and political crises, establishing her reputation as someone who could command respect across the aisle.
Viktoriya O'Cullane's campaign launch emphasizes unity, service, and bipartisan leadership
Campaign Platform Highlights:
- Bridging the Political Divide: Working with all parties to deliver positive change, drawing on experience as Ireland's longest-serving Cathaoirleach
- Military Credentials: Four years of service in Óglaigh na hÉireann, including tenure as Chief of Staff from June 27, 2023 to December 19, 2023, earning the Ulster Defence Medal for protecting Irish citizens in the North
- Legislative Reform Champion: Successfully lobbied for implementing independent Seanad reform and made Irish legislature truly representative
- Fearless Advocacy: History of fighting for those without power, as head of the Seanad Reform Group
O'Cullane's military service adds a unique dimension to her candidacy. As Chief of Staff, she safeguarded Ireland's borders and led troops "with determination and fearlessness," representing Ireland internationally with distinction. This combination of legislative wisdom and military leadership creates a compelling narrative: a president who understands both the art of democratic discourse and the gravity of national security.
Her campaign message emphasizes being "a political and unbiased spokesperson," promising to listen to citizens' concerns and make Ireland's democracy truly representative. In an era of political polarization, O'Cullane presents herself as the steady hand who can unite rather than divide.
🇮🇪 Oskar O'Sullivan: Standing Up for Ireland
Oskar O'Sullivan
"Oskar for President—Standing Up for Ireland"
Oskar O'Sullivan's campaign represents executive experience meeting passionate nationalism. Having joined Ireland in 2023, O'Sullivan swiftly rose to the highest office in the land, serving as Taoiseach from March 20 to May 24, 2025.
During his tenure, O'Sullivan navigated the complex dynamics of coalition government. His administration was "instrumental in creating an Ireland respected and admired internationally, as well as domestically," according to his campaign literature.
Oskar O'Sullivan's campaign emphasizes his record as Taoiseach and vision to "build an Ireland for all"
Four Pillars of O'Sullivan's Presidency:
- Standing Up for the People of Ireland 📢: Working tirelessly to "craft and build an Ireland for all," bringing Ireland-first governance to Áras an Uachtaráin
- Representing the Best of Ireland 🟢: Leveraging experience as Ambassador to the United Nations to represent Ireland on the world stage with distinction
- A Presidency of Service 🫡: Despite being a former Taoiseach, O'Sullivan emphasizes that "the vast majority of Oskar's time in Ireland has been committed to public service, not politics"—including roles as Secretary-General to the President, Director-General of RTÉ, and Director-General of the National Archives
- Gaeilge agus Cultúr 🇮🇪: A unique commitment to making "Irish a regular language of business in the Áras," reflecting his understanding that "Irish isn't just a language, it's a second tongue"
O'Sullivan's diplomatic credentials add significant weight to his candidacy. As Ambassador to the United Nations, he represented Ireland at the highest levels of international diplomacy. His campaign emphasizes that "Countries know the name OskarOSullivan, and they know that he is someone they can engage in dialogue with."
What distinguishes O'Sullivan's campaign is its cultural emphasis. His commitment to elevating Irish language and culture within the presidency speaks to constituents who believe Ireland's identity must be preserved and promoted from the highest office. His slogan—"Next Saturday, December 13th, cast your number one vote for a president who will stand up for Ireland at home and abroad"—captures this nationalist sentiment.
🏛️ Tomás Uítheachair: Devoted to Ireland
Tomás Uítheachair
"Uítheachair for Uachtaráin"
If experience is the ultimate credential, Tomás Uítheachair's campaign rests on the most formidable foundation of any candidate. A four-time Taoiseach and founding member of Ireland, Uítheachair has shaped Irish politics since the community's founding day in June 2020.
His campaigns as Taoiseach tell the story of Ireland's political evolution:
First Term: Minority Government
Led Ireland's government during the community's formative months, establishing progressive governance during a critical period.
Second Term: Coalition Government
Led a coalition government focused on advancing progressive policies and environmental initiatives.
Third Term: Grand Coalition Government
Led Ireland through the October 2022 British invasion crisis, unifying all 32 counties under one republic and securing Ireland's place as a Permanent Five nation—"a testament to our collective strength."
Fourth Term: Coalition to Minority Government
Navigated complex coalition politics, transitioning from partnership government to minority administration while maintaining stability.
Tomás Uítheachair's campaign emphasizes his lifelong commitment to Ireland and extensive experience
Beyond his executive leadership, Uítheachair served as the 5th Garda Commissioner from January 18 to August 6, 2024, demonstrating his versatility across branches of government and his commitment to public safety.
Uítheachair's Presidential Vision:
- 🌐 Diplomacy: Regular state visits with close partners, addressing joint sittings of the Oireachtas to reassert international ambition and showcase "the Irish spirit, because our people are our greatest asset"
- 🏛️ Business: Presidential Initiative Endorsement Programme to support citizen-endorsed projects—from new events to power plants to space agencies—involving local businesses in presidential events
- 🏅 Recognition: Receptions at Áras an Uachtaráin dedicated to recognizing everyday community work, including Public Servants' and Business Balls
- 🇮🇪 Gaeilge: Commitment to fostering Irish language and culture: "Tá go leor againn i mbun próiseas foghlama leis an nGaeilge—mé féin san áireamh"
Uítheachair's October 2022 leadership during the British invasion represents perhaps the defining moment of Ireland's modern history. His campaign emphasizes that under his leadership, Ireland "stood shoulder to shoulder against oppression, and unified all 32 counties under one republic for the first time in our history." This achievement—securing Ireland's place as a Permanent Five nation—remains the cornerstone of his legacy.
His campaign message is deeply personal: "I grew up with our community." As a founding member present from day one, Uítheachair embodies institutional memory and continuity. His vision for the presidency combines ceremonial duties with active community engagement—using the office to spotlight ordinary citizens and empower grassroots initiatives.
A Race Defined by Experience and Vision
What makes this election historic is not merely that it is contested, but that all three candidates bring genuinely presidential credentials to the race. Ireland faces no shortage of qualified leadership—the challenge for voters is choosing which type of leadership they want in Áras an Uachtaráin.
O'Cullane offers legislative mastery and military service, positioning herself as the unifying figure who can work with all parties. O'Sullivan brings executive experience and international diplomatic credentials, promising Ireland-first governance with cultural authenticity. Uítheachair presents unmatched longevity and crisis leadership, having literally been there since Ireland's founding day.
📊 Cast Your Vote in RTÉ's Official Poll
Before the actual election, tell us who you're supporting. Our poll uses the same STV system as the real election. Results published December 12th.
Vote in Poll Now →The campaigns are already taking shape in distinctly different ways. O'Cullane emphasizes her ability to bridge divides and her fearless advocacy for reform. O'Sullivan focuses on executive competence and cultural authenticity, promising an Ireland-first presidency. Uítheachair leans into his unparalleled experience and his vision for an active, community-engaged presidency.
All three have demonstrated their commitment to Ireland through years of public service. All three have earned the respect of their peers, securing the necessary Oireachtas nominations. And all three present compelling visions for how the presidency can serve Ireland's future.
What's at Stake
The Irish presidency, while largely ceremonial, carries significant symbolic weight and practical influence. The president serves as the guardian of the Constitution, a representative of Ireland on the world stage, and a unifying figure above partisan politics.
This election asks voters to consider what type of president Ireland needs at this moment in its history. Do we need a legislative expert who can navigate political complexity with bipartisan skill? An executive leader with international diplomatic experience and cultural passion? Or a founding father figure whose crisis leadership and institutional knowledge can guide Ireland forward?
The answer will be revealed on December 13th, when Ireland exercises its democratic right in only the second contested presidential election in the community's history.
RTÉ will provide comprehensive election coverage throughout the campaign period, including candidate debates, policy analysis, and live results on election night. Stay tuned to RTÉ News for Ireland's most trusted election reporting.
EDITOR'S NOTE: This article will be updated as the campaigns develop. For real-time election coverage, follow @rbx_rtenews on X.