The Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) has announced that party leader Mike Nesbitt is to step down from the position.
In a statement released today, a spokesperson said: “This marks a pivotal moment as the Party builds on strong foundations and accelerates towards a bold, forward-looking vision for the 2027 elections.”
“Since returning in 2024, Mike has led from the front as Minister of Health, reinforcing the UUP’s reputation for responsible, effective governance. He has also delivered key internal reforms, restored financial stability, modernised Party rules, and strengthened policy and communications teams – leaving the Party resilient, and ready for the future”, they added.
In August 2024, Nesbitt was appointed as leader of the party following the resignation of Doug Beattie. This is his second time serving as leader of the Ulster Unionists, his first stint being from 2012 until 2017.
According to BBC News NI, Nesbitt wants to remain as Health Minister, but it’s understood that his successor will make that decision.
“The next five-year mandate stretches to May 2032, the month I hope to celebrate my 75th birthday. That’s a commitment to fulltime politics I just do not feel I can make. And I would not be comfortably seeking a vote knowing that privately I was intending to retire during the mandate.
“I retook the leadership to do a short-term job of getting the Party match fit for the forthcoming election campaign. That job is now done so the time is right to select the politician who will lead us into the May 2027 polls promoting our brand of confident, responsible unionism.”
– Mike Nesbitt MLA, UUP Leader
The selection process for the new leader will shortly be outlined by party officers, “ensuring an inclusive, engaging and seamless transition,” the party said.
Party Chair, Lord Elliot of Ballinamallard, said: “We are deeply grateful to Mike for his decades of service and unwavering dedication to improving our society. As we enter 2026, we look forward to building on the strong platform he has created. Our next Leader will champion forward-looking Unionism – safeguarding Northern Ireland’s place in the UK while promoting prosperity, reconciliation, and a shared future for all.”
Robbie Butler, the current deputy leader of the party, and Jon Burrows, MLA for North Antrim, are both expected to take part in a leadership contest.
