DUBLIN: Leo Varadkar, the Prime Minister of Ireland, announced his resignation on Wednesday, stepping down from his position as the leader of the Fine Gael party within the governing coalition. Varadkar cited “personal and political” reasons for his decision, which has sent shockwaves through the Irish political landscape, occurring just 10 weeks before crucial European parliament and local elections, with a general election also looming within a year.
The unexpected announcement has been described by pundits as a “political earthquake”, with Deputy Prime Minister Micheal Martin expressing his surprise while affirming his expectation for the government to complete its full term. Varadkar, visibly emotional during his statement on the steps of Government Buildings in Dublin, explained that he no longer felt he was the “best person” to lead the country.
“I believe a new Taoiseach (prime minister) will be better-placed than me to achieve that — to renew and strengthen the top team, to refocus our message and policies, and to drive implementation,” Varadkar stated, highlighting his belief in the government’s potential for re-election under new leadership.
Varadkar, who has served as Prime Minister for seven years, emphasized his resignation as both the president and leader of Fine Gael, pledging to step down as Taoiseach once his successor assumes office. While he attributed his decision to personal and political factors, Varadkar did not delve into specifics.
The resignation comes on the heels of a recent defeat for Varadkar’s government, including a significant referendum loss on proposals to reform references to women, the family, and care in the Irish constitution, for which he faced widespread criticism.
In light of Varadkar’s departure, Fine Gael will undergo a leadership contest, with Varadkar remaining as premier until the new leader is elected, expected after parliament reconvenes from recess next month.
