After Leo Varadkar’s resignation, Simon Harris, an Indian-origin politician, is set to become Ireland’s youngest prime minister as he assumes leadership of the Fine Gael party according to the media.
Simon Harris expressed his gratitude, calling it the “greatest honor of my life” to be chosen as the party leader following Varadkar’s unexpected resignation. Varadkar stepped down, citing his belief that the party would benefit from new leadership.
Harris is expected to be officially elected as Ireland’s youngest prime minister, known as the taoiseach, during the next session of the country’s parliament on April 9, thanks to support from Fine Gael’s coalition partners.
Fine Gael’s deputy leader, Simon Coveney, praised Harris’s leadership acquisition, saying, “He has done an excellent job in securing leadership in a comprehensive manner.”
Harris Promises !
Harris pledged to repay the trust of Fine Gael members through hard work, stating he would dedicate himself with “blood, sweat, and tears,” along with a sense of responsibility, humility, and civility.
He outlined his priorities, emphasizing Fine Gael’s commitment to law and order and expressing a desire to reclaim their position from nationalists, which received enthusiastic support.
Harris also addressed immigration policy, aiming for a more structured and sustainable approach amid rising tensions, and vowed to combat the dangers of populism.
Who is Simon Harris?
Simon Harris is an Irish politician who assumed the role of Fine Gael’s Leader in 2024. Prior to this position, Harris held ministerial roles within the Irish government since 2016, including his most recent role as Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science since June 2020.