Micheal Martin admits Billy Kelleher could have been 'stronger candidate' for Aras race and rejects claims he is a 'top-down' leader

"Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said he did not put "extensive pressure" on Fianna Fáil parliamentary party members to choose Jim Gavin as the party's candidate and rejected that he has a "top-down" approach to leadership."

"Since Catherine Connolly's victory in the presidential election last Saturday, some Fianna Fáil TDs have been openly critical of the party's campaign, with reports that at least 10 members had signed a motion of no-confidence in Mr Martin."

Micheál Martin denied applying extensive pressure on Fianna Fáil parliamentary party members to select Jim Gavin as the party's candidate and rejected having a top-down leadership approach. Catherine Connolly won the recent presidential election last Saturday. Following that result, several Fianna Fáil TDs publicly criticized the party's campaign performance. Reports indicate that at least ten parliamentary party members signed a motion of no-confidence in Martin. The internal unrest reflects dissatisfaction with campaign decisions and candidate selection. The combination of electoral defeat and parliamentary discontent has raised questions about party unity and leadership strategy.

Read at Irish Independent