Cllr Paul Michael has quit the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) following a decision to replace Health Minister Robin Swann with Mike Nesbitt later this year when the general election campaign begins.
As reported by the Antrim Guardian, he opposes the decision as Mike Nesbitt admitted a breach of lockdown rules during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Mr Michael has also criticised the party’s response when he asked about Steve Aiken’s recent suspension from Stormont.
“When I began asking difficult questions, the shutters just came down. It’s as if they didn’t want to hear any challenging questions.”
“Breaking the Covid rules was a shocking error of judgement. Putting Mike in charge of our Health service is too. It’s madness and I for one can not stomach that prospect.”
A UUP spokesperson told BBC News NI, “Councillor Michael has served the Ulster Unionist Party and the people of Airport DEA for a number of years.
“While we are disappointed with his decision, we wish him the best for the future.”
Currently a councillor on Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, Michael will continue the rest of his term as an independent.
He has been elected to the Airport District Electoral Area (DEA) since 2014.
