The race for Iceland’s new president heats up as three women vie for the position: former Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir; businesswoman Halla Tomasdottir; and Arctic scholar Halla Hrund Logadottir.
Voters in Iceland are heading to the polls to elect a new president in what is expected to be a tight competition among the three leading female candidates. The president, primarily a ceremonial figure in Iceland’s parliamentary republic, plays a key role in upholding the constitution and national unity, with the power to veto legislation or call for referendums.
The election campaign, devoid of a central issue, has seen candidates running as independents without party affiliations. The departure of incumbent Gudni Johannesson, who opted out of seeking re-election after serving two terms, leaves room for fresh leadership.
In the forefront of the race are Jakobsdottir, Tomasdottir, and Logadottir, garnering support in opinion polls as they engage in debates touching on key national issues. Jakobsdottir, a former head of a left-right coalition government, faces scrutiny over her political background but remains confident in her ability to transcend party politics.
Women in the lead
Leading the polls are Jakobsdottir with 26%, Tomasdottir with 24%, and Logadottir with 19%. As Iceland anticipates a new leader, the outcome of this historic election is eagerly awaited.