Iceland: Voting Underway for Presidential Elections

Voting has commenced in Iceland to elect a new President, with polling stations open in larger municipalities until 10 pm (local time) on Saturday, as reported by Iceland Review. Approximately 270,000 eligible voters must present personal identification, such as a passport or driving license, to receive their ballot.

Former Iceland Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir and businesswoman Halla Tomasdottir are currently in a close race, according to the latest poll. Jakobsdottir holds 26 per cent of the vote, with Tomasdottir close behind at 23.9 per cent, as per a Gallup poll cited by Iceland Review.

The election unfolds in a single round, and the new President could be elected with just around a quarter of the total vote. Halla Hrund Logadottir secured 19 per cent of the votes, while Baldur Thorhallsson garnered just under 15 per cent, placing fourth. Jon Gnarr, with 8 per cent, stands fifth among the 12 candidates vying for the position.

Outgoing President Gudni Johannesson announced on January 1 that he would not seek reelection after serving two terms in office. Johannesson will continue as Iceland’s President until August 1, when the newly-elected President assumes office.

Although the President in Iceland holds limited political powers, they undertake all ceremonial duties and are deemed to wield significant influence over Icelandic society.