Former Sinn Féin councillor Martin McGovern has denied rumours he plans to stand as an independent health candidate in upcoming elections. He remains an active party member and said he would not rule out running for Sinn Féin again, provided a valid vacancy exists.

McGovern was co-opted onto the legacy Fermanagh District Council in 2014 for the Erne West area but resigned two years later due to health reasons. He dismissed suggestions his recent public profile had positioned him for an independent bid, attributing the speculation to media coverage of his campaigns on postal delays and a cancer fundraiser in Enniskillen.

He stated he has no ambition to become an independent councillor and expressed criticism of independents, claiming they have been disruptive and that some shift toward establishment positions over time.

McGovern clarified he is not seeking to challenge any sitting representatives. He said his long-term political ambition is to become the first Sinn Féin TD for Fermanagh and South Tyrone in a united Ireland.