Public appetite for return of Ólafur Ragnar

Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson became President of Iceland in 1996.

Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson became President of Iceland in 1996. Photo: Iceland Monitor/Golli

The political uncertainty affecting Iceland could pave a way back to power for Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, outgoing President of Iceland – at least, public appetite for such a return appears to be growing.

This is according to Stefanía Óskarsdóttir, Lecturer in Politics at the University of Iceland.

In the wake of the political upheavals of last week , people are looking for somebody with an overview, Óskarsdóttir says.

Political unrest make voters yearn for stability and overview.

Political unrest make voters yearn for stability and overview. Photo: Iceland Monitor/Golli

Grímsson has been President of Iceland for twenty years, but recently announced that he would not be running for reelection this year .

“Many people trust him and uncertainty is now reigning in Icelandic politics,” Óskarsdóttir says. “If there is a governmental crisis after the elections this autumn, the President could be called upon to help party leaders to form a government.”

In this context, more and more would like to see President Grímsson return, she concludes.

Over a dozen candidates have so far stepped forward to …

Over a dozen candidates have so far stepped forward to take over from President Grímsson. Elections are to be held in June. Photo: Brynjar Gauti

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