Former senior police officer Jon Burrows has confirmed he will stand to become the next leader of the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP). Mr Burrows, who was co-opted as an MLA for North Antrim last summer, said he wants to “arrest stagnation” in the party, which was once the largest in Northern Ireland.
Speaking at a press conference at Parliament Buildings in Belfast on Thursday, Mr Burrows said: “Strong leadership and real change are necessary in both this party and in our wider politics to reconnect with the electorate, arrest stagnation, and deliver solutions for the people of Northern Ireland.” He described himself as an “unapologetic unionist” who would advocate for Northern Ireland’s place in the UK.
Diana Armstrong, the UUP’s MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone, has announced her intention to run as deputy leader. Current deputy Robbie Butler is also believed to be interested in running for the leadership. Ms Armstrong said: “I would like to thank Jon for the trust he has placed in me by asking me to serve as his deputy leader.”
The UUP opened nominations on Wednesday, with a deadline of January 15. An extraordinary general meeting on January 31 will see members elect a new leader and deputy. Incumbent leader Mike Nesbitt, who announced his intention to step down earlier this month, will remain in post until then. Mr Nesbitt previously led the UUP from 2012 to 2017, with subsequent leaders including Robin Swann, Steve Aiken, and Doug Beattie.
