Higgins is taking the Mickey D...
My decision will be my decision – so says Michael D Higgins on whether he will run again for the presidency. Sounds just a touch petulant considering he claimed he would only stay for one term. To be honest, it’s about time he let us know if he is going to do a volte-face and seek a second.
This would give other potential candidates a chance to crank up their campaigns. Then, of course, delaying his announcement could scupper rivals’ plans and that looks increasingly like what is afoot.
However, this may backfire on our betweeded President as it gives the public longer to focus on why he is going back on his word and ask whether 77 is too old to be seeking a further seven years in the park.
As far as Fine Gael is concerned, they would be more than happy to see Michael D stay in place. In fact, they sound like a chorus.
Minister Murphy thinks “he is doing a fantastic job” and for good measure, Minister Bruton thinks “he is doing a fantastic job”. Minister Harris rows in with “an excellent job” and, not to be outdone, the Tanaiste declares he “has done a very good job”.
Sounds to me the last thing the Blue Shirts want is a presidential election.
First of all, the expense is not welcome and secondly, who would they put forward? Enda Kenny might be enjoying his freedom too much to run this time.
They would love for Mr Higgins Michael D to amble back into the Aras without an election or, failing that, there to be a field of opponents where they can credibly support a Labour candidate.
L