I have come under intense pressure - I have the qualities necessary to lead the group at this rather difficult time Ieuan Wyn Jones

The Ynys Mon AM confirmed he will attempt a political comeback, standing for part of the post he recently resigned.

He announced his resignation from the presidency in May after losing the assembly group's support following poor results in the Welsh assembly election.

But the party is now dividing its Westminster and Cardiff Bay responsibilities prompting a second election for the assembly post - presenting Mr Jones with another chance.

The deadline for presidential candidates passed last Friday, with folk singer and Gwynedd councillor Dafydd Iwan, and former AM Cynog Dafis putting their names forward.

Helen Mary Jones has been accused of plotting to oust Ieuan Wyn Jones

According to the party's constitution, there will only be a separate leader in the assembly if the party president comes from outside the assembly.

So Plaid will hold its two elections simultaneously, with the result due to be announced on 15 September.

Mr Jones will join AMs Rhodri Glyn Thomas and Helen Mary Jones, both of whom had already thrown their hat in the ring for the assembly leadership. Nominations close on 31 July.

Support

"I have come under intense pressure ... from grassroot members from all over Wales and from senior party figures," Mr Jones said.

PLAID CANDIDATES President:- Dafydd Iwan Cynog Dafis Assembly (so far):- Helen Mary Jones Rhodri Glyn Thomas Ieuan Wyn Jones (assembly nominations close 31 July, both results 15 September)

"They believe that I have the qualities necessary to lead the group at this rather difficult time.

"They have also expressed their deep concern ... at the circumstances which forced me to stand down as president."

He pledged to establish a new campaigning unit to fight elections more professionally - a criticism of Plaid at May's Welsh assembly poll.

And he said he would "streamline" the party's organisation in conjunction with his successor as president.

'Plotters'

Ms Jones has been accused of being one of the "plotters" who allegedly conspired to oust Mr Jones from the presidency - which she strongly denies.

"I would welcome the opportunity to lead that opposition in the assembly in partnership with colleagues at Westminster, in Europe and in local government," she added.