Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has denied any conspiracy theories over his resignation, which caused surprise within his party. The taoiseach claimed he had only informed his government partners the night before. Rumours about his resignation have persisted since the announcement, but Varadkar moved to dispel them on Friday.
Speaking in Brussels, he denied having any ulterior motive or a new job lined up. Varadkar’s comments come ahead of nominations for his successor closing on Sunday, with Simon Harris, the further education minister, as the only declared candidate so far.
A memo sent to Fine Gael politicians stated that the returning officer will make an announcement at the conclusion of the Midlands North West European Election Selection Convention confirming the person/s duly nominated. A general election must be called by early February 2025. Irish President Michael D Higgins was informed of Varadkar’s decision to stand down shortly before the press conference announcing his resignation.
