Summary
Mike Nesbitt will step down as leader of the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP). Nesbitt has informed party members of his decision and plans to stay on as health minister until the next election in 2027, although this will depend on the new leader.
Key Facts
- Mike Nesbitt announced he will step down as UUP leader.
- Nesbitt has been UUP leader since August 2024, marking his second time in the role.
- He wishes to remain as health minister until May 2027.
- Nesbitt first became UUP leader in 2012 but resigned in 2017 after poor election results.
- The UUP has had several leaders since 2017: Robin Swann, Steve Aiken, Doug Beattie, and Nesbitt again.
- The party has not seen significant improvement under these leaders.
- Speculation about the next leader includes Robbie Butler and Jon Burrows.
- If both Butler and Burrows run, it will be the first UUP leadership contest since 2012.
