Geoffrey Donaldson, leader of Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), has resigned amidst unexpected circumstances. The 61-year-old, who took charge in 2021 after Edwin Poots, stepped down from his position following his arrest by the police in connection with a prior sex crime. Details regarding the nature of the crime and Donaldson’s involvement remain unclear. Alongside him, a 57-year-old woman has also been arrested in connection with the case.
In response to the situation, the DUP announced Donaldson’s suspension from party membership pending a court ruling. Gavin Robinson has been unanimously elected as the new leader in Donaldson’s stead. Donaldson, who has been a Member of Parliament since 1997, will face court proceedings on April 22. This development comes at a critical juncture as Northern Ireland recently voted in favor of power-sharing, marking the re-establishment of the Stormond Assembly.