Mary Regan: Martin's authority damaged and Chambers's ambitions dealt fatal blow amid open revolt in Fianna Fail

"TDs are openly discussing when and how Mr Martin will be replaced after Jim Gavin presidential bid fiasco"

"Even before the bombshell announcement on Sunday night that Jim Gavin would be withdrawing from the presidential race, all was not well in the Fianna Fáil campaign. The party leader, Micheál Martin, had not been seen on the campaign trail with his candidate all week long. He had not posted anything on his social media account about the man he had fought so hard to get on the ballot paper."

Jim Gavin withdrew from the presidential race on Sunday night, creating immediate turmoil within Fianna Fáil. Signs of internal strain were evident before the withdrawal, with campaign operations appearing unsettled. Micheál Martin did not appear on the campaign trail with Jim Gavin during the preceding week. Micheál Martin also did not post about the candidate on his social media accounts despite previously working to secure the nomination. Backbench TDs are openly discussing when and how to replace Micheál Martin as party leader in response to the campaign fallout. Speculation about leadership change has intensified as party figures weigh timing and process for any potential transition. The situation raises questions about internal cohesion and campaign management within Fianna Fáil ahead of upcoming political contests.

Read at Independent