Colum Eastwood, former leader of the Social Democratic and Labour Party, has confirmed he will not run in the 2025 Irish presidential election. He had considered an independent campaign after being approached to put his name forward.
Eastwood stated that he believes it is not the right time for him to enter the race. He had hoped to secure cross-party support but concluded that the political landscape does not allow for a viable independent challenge.
The race is now shaping with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael nearing candidate selections. Sinn Féin is also expected to enter the contest, reducing space for independent contenders. The election is not expected until late October.