Professor Tony Holohan, Ireland’s former Chief Medical Officer, is reportedly preparing to launch a bid for the Presidency of Ireland, according to sources close to the public health physician. The news, first revealed by the Irish Mail on Sunday, has sparked significant interest as the race to succeed President Michael D. Higgins heats up.
Holohan, who served as Chief Medical Officer from 2008 to 2022, became a household name during the COVID-19 pandemic, guiding Ireland through one of its most challenging public health crises. Sources indicate that he’s going to run and that will announce his candidacy for Áras an Uachtaráin.
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Speculation about Holohan’s potential run has been fueled by his recent activities, including posts on Instagram featuring the Irish flag outside UN buildings. His cordial relationships with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael could play a role in securing political backing, though it remains unclear which parties, if any, will support his bid. Fianna Fáil has yet to confirm whether it will field a candidate, with a decision expected in early autumn.
Holohan’s potential candidacy follows a distinguished career in public health, though it has not been without controversy. In 2022, he faced scrutiny over a proposed taxpayer-funded secondment to Trinity College Dublin, which led to his retirement as Chief Medical Officer and decision not to take up the academic role.
As of now, only two candidates have officially declared their intention to run: Fine Gael’s MEP and EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness and Independent TD Catherine Connolly, backed by the Social Democrats and People Before Profit. With Holohan’s name now in the mix, the presidential race is shaping up to be a closely watched contest.
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