Halla Tomasdottir Takes Charge as the New President of Iceland

Businesswoman and B Team CEO Halla Tomasdottir has been elected as the seventh President of Iceland, succeeding Guana Johannesson on August 1, as reported by RUV. Tomasdottir will become the second woman to hold this esteemed position after Vigdis Finnbogadottir, who made history as the world’s first democratically elected female president in 1980.

Securing 34.3% of the vote, Halla Tomasdottir emerged victorious, with former Prime Minister Katrina Jakobsdottir trailing behind with 25.2%, according to RUV. Halla Hrund Logadottir, Director General, came third with 15.1%, while comedian Jon Gnarr and Professor Baldur Thorhallsson occupied the fourth and fifth positions, respectively, as per the Iceland Review report.

In acknowledgment of Tomasdottir’s triumph, Katrin Jakobsdottir expressed her confidence in her capabilities, stating, “I want to congratulate her, and I know she’ll be a good president.”

During her campaign celebration, Tomasdottir emphasized the importance of societal discourse, stating, “I think people want to discuss our society and take part in it,” as reported by Iceland Review. She expressed gratitude for the support received throughout her journey, acknowledging the energy of those who joined her cause.

The voter turnout for this election was 78.83%, the highest in a presidential election since 1996, according to RUV. Tomasdottir’s campaign message emphasized unity, with her stating, “I only see one team in Iceland, and that’s Icelanders.” She envisioned Bessastadir, the official residence of the President of Iceland, as the symbolic centre of national unity.

Outgoing President Guani Johannesson, who defeated Tomasdottir in 2016, acknowledged the resonance of her message with voters. He also highlighted the scrutiny faced by Katrina Jakobsdottir regarding her transition from Prime Minister to presidential candidate.

With limited political powers, the President of Iceland holds significant influence over societal matters and carries out ceremonial duties, as noted by Iceland Review. Guani Johannesson announced his decision not to seek reelection on January 1, after serving two terms in office, paving the way for the upcoming transition of leadership on August 1.