Northern Ireland’s political landscape has been rocked by the arrest, charging and resignation of Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, but his departure must not lead to instability, according to the BBC’s political editor. The new interim leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Gavin Robinson, stated that Northern Ireland’s return to power-sharing government, secured just weeks ago, must continue. However, personality and individuals are always important in politics and are particularly so in Northern Ireland. Sir Jeffrey Donaldson was seen as the glue holding his party together, persuading enough of them to return to Stormont for devolved government.
The return to devolved government just two months ago was seen as a brave act of statesmanship by Sir Jeffrey, who used his political capital to bring his colleagues to collective agreement. Importantly, Sir Jeffrey’s departure will not remove a piece of the devolved jigsaw as he is an MP, not a member of the legislative assembly. Nevertheless, his resignation will force a leadership contest and a general election will also take place.
Sir Jeffrey played an important role in championing Northern Ireland’s place within the United Kingdom and his resignation will bring new pivotal moments to Northern Ireland’s future. Questions regarding devolution and unionism will shape Northern Ireland’s future, however, it is important that his departure does not result in instability. The return of power-sharing government after a three-year absence was a ray of hope that led to optimism for the future of Northern Ireland. It is now up to the remaining leaders to ensure that the progress that has been made in recent years is not lost and that Northern Ireland continues to move forward
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