LIVE: Conor McGregor launches petition to secure place on ballot for Presidential election

Former MMA fighter Conor McGregor has announced his intention to context the upcoming Presidential Election.

The Dublin man first hinted at running in March of this year but officially declared the news across social media on Bank Monday.

In an Instagram post, the controversial figure stated his intent to run and simultaneously launched a petition to ensure he can make the ballot. 

McGregor said: "To the esteemed citizens of Ireland and the Irish diaspora, I, Conor McGregor, hereby declare my intention to seek the esteemed office of President of Ireland. The current constitutional framework however presents a significant barrier to democratic participation."

Article 12 of the Constitution states that every candidate for election to the office of President "must be nominated either by (i) not less than twenty persons, each of whom is at the time a member of one of the Houses of the Oireachtas, or (ii) by the Councils of not less than four administrative Counties (including County Boroughs) as defined by law.

Former or retiring Presidents may become candidates on their own nomination.

The constitution also states that it is not permitted for Oireachtas members or local authorities to nominate more than one candidate to contest the same election.

In his social media post, Conor McGregor added: "This system, while intended to ensure a degree of political influence among candidates, inadvertently restricts the direct voice of the Irish electorate."

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Alongside the announcement, the-father-of-four launched a Change.org petition advocating for a modification of the nomination process to allow his name be included on the ballot. The public figure said that citizens of Ireland, both at home and abroad, should have the "unhindered" right to determine the candidates who appear on the presidential ballot.

"Therefore, I implore you to join me in this endeavour by signing this petition. Your support will be instrumental in championing a more inclusive and democratic electoral process, thereby empowering the people of Ireland to shape their own future," he concluded. 

As off midday this Tuesday, the petition had more than 7,500 signatures.