Councillor Lawrie Philpott has resigned from the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and will continue the remainder of his term as an independent.
The Ballymena councillor was first elected in 2023. He had previously served as Ian Paisley’s constituency agent.
In a statement, Cllr Philpott said: “I have left party politics behind to put people first as an Independent councillor.
“This decision has not been an easy one, but I believe it is the right one. My priority has always been – and will always remain – to represent and serve the people of Ballymena to the best of my ability.
“By stepping away from party politics, I can focus entirely on the needs and concerns of local people, without being influenced by any wider political agenda.
“I am committed to working constructively with all colleagues, regardless of political affiliation, to achieve what is best for our town. I will continue to work hard for the people of Ballymena, listening to concerns and doing my best to get things done.”
He is the second DUP councillor to quit the party on Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, after David Clarke resigned in 2024, and shortly after joined the Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV) party.
