Former Althing Speaker turns 99

Salome Þorkelsdóttir, a former Speaker of the Althing (Icelandic Parliament), celebrated her 99th birthday surrounded by family and friends. The milestone makes her the oldest living individual who has served in the Icelandic parliament and also the oldest resident of Mosfellsbær.

Þorkelsdóttir, who represented the Independence Party, served in the Althing for 16 years from 1979 to 1995. For the last four years of her tenure, she held the esteemed position of Speaker of the unified Althing. Her longevity in public service is remarkable, having attended the Independence Party's national convention at the age of 97 just two years ago.

According to a compilation by Icelandic language expert Ármann Jakobsson, Þorkelsdóttir has been recognized as the oldest living Icelander to have served in parliament since 2023. Her continued engagement with political life, even in her advanced years, highlights her enduring connection to public service and the nation's political history.

To commemorate her special day, Hilmar Gunnarsson, the Mayor of Mosfellsbær, visited Þorkelsdóttir. The visit underscored the community's respect and recognition for her significant contributions and long-standing presence in both national politics and local life.