Left-wing independent Catherine Connolly has been declared the winner of Ireland’s presidential election, defeating her centrist rival Heather Humphreys by a wide margin.

Connolly secured around 63% of first-preference votes, marking a historic victory that reflects growing public desire for political change and independent leadership.

The election saw a low voter turnout of about 46% and over 213,000 spoiled ballots, signaling public frustration with the choices on offer.

Despite the presidency’s largely ceremonial role, Connolly’s win is being viewed as a powerful message to Ireland’s political establishment.