UUP leadership race underway - as focus turns to whether Robbie Butler will run against Jon Burrows
Robbie Butler is remaining silent on whether he intends to run for leader of the Ulster Unionist Party – as the process for selecting Mike Nesbitt’s replacement gets underway.
Jon Burrows and Diana Armstrong will run together for leader and deputy, meaning Mr Butler will lose his leadership position in the party if he does not put his name forward.
The UUP has announced that Mike Nesbitt will stay on until 31 January – when an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) will be held in Belfast. Should there be a contest, two hustings events will be held in private, with no media.
It is understood that Mrs Armstrong turned down an offer from the current deputy leader to run on a joint ticket – instead choosing to run to replace him in a new leadership team with newcomer Mr Burrows.
Robbie Butler has not commented on his intentions, however his backers believe he is still likely to run – sparking a full contest.
There has been speculation within the party that Jon Burrows could be appointed leader by party officers ahead of a later ratification by members, should Mr Butler nor run. The party’s confirmation that Mr Nesbitt will stay on until a vote on January 31 appears to rule that out.
Outgoing leader Mike Nesbitt was appointed by party officers as leader at the end of August 2024, and then formally ratified by party members a month later at the UUP annual conference.
In a statement released on Wednesday afternoon, a spokesperson said: “The Ulster Unionist Party has today formally commenced its leadership transition process.
“To ensure a smooth and orderly transition, Mike Nesbitt MLA will continue in his role until the Party convenes an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on Saturday 31 January 2026 at the Stormont Hotel, Belfast.
“At this meeting, in accordance with Party Rules, members will elect a new Leader and Deputy Leader jointly. Formal nominations for both positions are now open and will close on 15 January 2026.
“As part of this process, the Party will also host two internal, members-only hustings events to allow prospective candidates to engage directly with the membership.
UUP Chair Lord Tom Elliott said: “This is a pivotal moment for our party. By implementing a clear and collaborative leadership transition process, we are ensuring that our next chapter is guided by constructive and dynamic dialogue.”