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Jon Burrows to Lead UUP, Diana Armstrong as Deputy

1/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Jon Burrows, a former senior police officer, is set to lead the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) as the sole candidate.
Nominations closed on January 15, with Burrows securing 35 signatures from nine constituency associations.
Diana Armstrong, the UUP's only female MLA, is Burrows' running mate for deputy leader.
Outgoing leader Mike Nesbitt will remain until Burrows is ratified on January 31.

History

Historical Context

The Ulster Unionist Party (UUP), founded in 1905, has faced ongoing challenges since the 1998 Good Friday Agreement aimed at stabilizing Northern Ireland. In 2016, Jon Burrows emerged as the sole candidate for leadership, reflecting the party's need for renewed direction amid political tensions and evolving voter expectations, particularly as it navigates sectarian divisions and competition from parties like Sinn Féin.

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Story summary

Jon Burrows, a former senior police officer, is set to lead the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) as the sole candidate.
Nominations closed on January 15, with Burrows securing 35 signatures from nine constituency associations.
Diana Armstrong, the UUP's only female MLA, is Burrows' running mate for deputy leader.
Outgoing leader Mike Nesbitt will remain until Burrows is ratified on January 31.

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