Ulster Unionist Colin Crawford has announced his intention to resign as MLA for North Antrim, saying the decision was difficult, but the right one for him and his family.
He shared the news on social media, saying: “After much soul-searching, I have decided the time has come for me to step away from politics.”
“This has been a difficult decision, but I know in my heart it is the right one for myself and my family.
“It has been the honour of my lifetime to serve the people of Ballymena as a Councillor and North Antrim as their MLA. While I may not have always succeeded, I have always strived to represent and work on behalf of those who have sought my help.
“To my incredible staff, North Antrim Association, and the many constituents who placed their faith in me – thank you. To those who have reached out with kindness in recent weeks – your messages have touched me more than you know.
“For now I simply want to say from the bottom of my heart – thank you for the trust you placed in me. It was a privilege I never took for granted.”
Crawford was at the centre of a row within the UUP when he was chosen to be co-opted to replace Robin Swann after the general election in 2024.
Then party leader, Doug Beattie MLA, had supported Cllr Darryl Wilson to take the seat, but the local party association voted for Crawford, leading to Beattie’s resignation as party leader.
Crawford was elected as a councillor for the Ballymena District Electoral Area (DEA) on Mid and East Antrim Borough Council in May 2023.
In a statement, UUP leader Mike Nesbitt said: “I want to thank Colin for his service to the Ulster Unionist Party, the people of the Ballymena DEA on Mid & East Antrim Borough Council, and more recently to North Antrim in the Assembly.
“Colin informed us yesterday evening that he will be stepping down as an MLA at the end of the month. He is a valued colleague, and we wish him all the very best for the future.”
