One term is enough for Higgins
There is one thing that tends to make my blood boil when it comes to politics and that is a good stitch-up. It is so prevalent here that it often restricts talent from breaking through the ranks and in many cases discourages people from participating in the first place. It is, therefore, all the more distasteful to see it on display in the office of the presidency.
Michael D Higgins categorically said he would only seek one term. Very sensible in the circumstances, as he is now 77 years of age.
Now he is considered a racing certainty to run again. Not very sensible as he will be 84 at the end of his term.
Of equal importance is the fact he would be breaking his pact with the Irish people that he would be a one-term President. All that comfortable living, first-class travel and a chance to think of yourself as a global intellectual can be very seductive.
Michael D may have become, as Kevin Sharkey – another Presidential hopeful –
Michael D Higgins has chosen to nominate himself suggested, a little “pompous” over the years. He has certainly started to exude a sense of entitlement. his, of course, brings me straight on to the stitch-up. Higgins has deliberately delayed announcing his candidature by nominating himself – which he is entitled to do – so he can wrong foot anybody else who might consider a run.
Independent Senator Gerard Craughwell is to be commended for his one-man campaign.
Surely it is in our interests to have a vigorous contest? Damn it, I am tempted to throw my hat in the ring just to liven things up a bit.
Isn’t it pathetic neither of our two main parties are prepared to put up a candidate? Don’t think this is about principles, it is simply about money. It is left to Sinn Fein to enter.
So a 77-year-old one-term President waltzes back into the Park for the next seven years without a serious contest. What does that say about our vibrant, progressive republic?
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