Jeffrey Donaldson, leader of Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), has resigned following charges related to historical sex offences, announced the party.
Donaldson, a prominent figure in British politics, served as Northern Ireland’s longest-standing lawmaker in the British parliament since his election in 1997.
The DUP confirmed Donaldson’s resignation after he was charged with “allegations of an historical nature.” The party suspended his membership pending the outcome of the judicial process.
Police arrested and charged Donaldson, 61, for “non-recent” sexual offences, while a 57-year-old woman faces charges for aiding and abetting additional offences. Both were due in court on April 24, though details about the charges and individuals involved remain undisclosed.
Gavin Robinson, the DUP’s deputy leader and fellow British parliament member, was appointed interim leader. Donaldson’s resignation adds to the DUP’s recent upheavals amidst upcoming British parliamentary elections and Sinn Fein’s ascension over the DUP in Northern Ireland’s assembly elections in 2022.
The power-sharing government, a crucial component of Northern Ireland’s peace settlement, faces challenges amid Donaldson’s resignation. Despite the turmoil, First Minister Michelle O’Neill reaffirmed the government’s commitment to serving the community.
Donaldson’s departure follows his predecessor’s removal and internal party disputes over post-Brexit trade rules. His efforts to address trade barriers with the UK were met with opposition within the party.
Donaldson’s social media accounts have been deleted.
