The Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) is set for a leadership renewal, with former senior police officer Jon Burrows emerging as the sole candidate to succeed Mike Nesbitt. Mr Burrows has immediately set out his stall, declaring that politics in Northern Ireland must urgently reconnect with ordinary people and be dedicated to improving their daily lives.
A New Chapter for Ulster Unionism
Nominations for the leadership closed on Thursday evening, confirming Mr Burrows as the only contender. He is making a joint bid for the party's top roles alongside Diana Armstrong, the MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone, who is running to become deputy leader. The current deputy, Robbie Butler, ruled himself out of the contest earlier on Thursday.
Mr Burrows, who was co-opted as the UUP's North Antrim MLA in August last year, said he had been "overwhelmed by the widespread support from every corner of the party." He is expected to be formally ratified at an extraordinary general meeting on January 31.
A Vision of Pragmatic and Confident Leadership
In a statement released on Friday, the leader-elect outlined his core philosophy. "The people of Northern Ireland deserve a strong, confident, and pragmatic Ulster Unionist Party," he stated. He emphasised that the party must deliver for citizens, address current challenges with honesty, and work to strengthen the Union in the long term.
Paying tribute to the outgoing leader, Mr Burrows described Mike Nesbitt as a "natural leader who cares profoundly about both the union and our party." He explained his decision to step forward, saying he wanted to lead a party anchored in common sense and evidence, not ideology.
Positioning himself as a fresh force, Mr Burrows highlighted his background in public service. "As a relative newcomer to elected politics but with deep public service experience, I bring fresh energy to renew our party at all levels," he said, while vowing to honour the UUP's traditions of service and pragmatism.
Breaking Barriers and Tackling Key Challenges
A central pledge of his leadership will be to broaden the party's appeal. "I am determined to break down barriers and attract more women and young people to our politics," Mr Burrows affirmed. He also praised his running mate, Diana Armstrong, as someone driven by service and commitment to rural communities.
Looking ahead, the incoming leader signalled a focus on bread-and-butter issues and constitutional matters. He pledged to lead a party ready to tackle health, education, and economic challenges head-on, rebuild public trust, and combat the Windsor Framework.
"We have much to be proud of in Northern Ireland, but there is also much to address, and that task is urgent," Mr Burrows concluded, expressing enthusiasm for the next chapter of Ulster Unionism under his stewardship.
