UUP Leader Jon Burrows rejects ‘inaccurate’ portrayal as leader vows rebuild after Beattie exit

Ulster Unionist Party Leader Jon Burrows

The Ulster Unionist Party has moved to steady internal nerves and project unity after a bruising week of political turmoil, with party leader Jon Burrows insisting the party “will not allow” recent criticism and media characterisations to define its future.

In a direct message to members and supporters, the MLA acknowledged frustration within the party following the departure of former leader Doug Beattie MC MLA, describing recent days as a significant test for the Ulster Unionists as questions continue over the direction and stability of unionism in Northern Ireland.

Burrows used the statement to thank Beattie for his “years of dedicated service” while also making clear that the party intends to move beyond internal tensions and refocus attention on public issues including healthcare, safer communities, economic renewal and support for young people.

The intervention comes at a sensitive moment for the Ulster Unionists, with the party facing renewed scrutiny over its identity, electoral future and leadership direction amid wider competition within unionism.

Leader says party ‘not defined by headlines’

Addressing members directly, Burrows said many within the party had been angered and disappointed by recent coverage surrounding internal developments.

“This week has tested our party,” he said.

“The departure of a valued colleague is never easy, and I recognise the frustration and disappointment many of you have felt in response to recent media coverage.”

While acknowledging the difficulties, Burrows insisted the Ulster Unionist Party remained focused on substance rather than personalities or speculation.

“The Ulster Unionist Party is not defined by headlines, speculation, or commentary,” he said.

“We are defined by our values, our record, and our daily work for the people of Northern Ireland.”

He also claimed recent portrayals of the party and its membership had been unfair.

“Our party, our members, and our colleagues have been characterised in recent days in a manner that is neither representative nor accurate, and we will not allow that characterisation to define who we are.”

Push for ‘modern unionism’

Burrows used the message to set out a broader vision for what he described as a “modern”, “serious” and outward-looking unionist movement capable of appealing beyond traditional supporters.

He said members had consistently told him they wanted a party that showed “confidence, cohesion, and a willingness to modernise while staying true to our principles”.

The party leader said he wants the Ulster Unionists to become “the leading voice in modern unionism”, while remaining firmly committed to Northern Ireland’s place within the United Kingdom.

“Northern Ireland needs a strong, serious, and outward-looking Ulster Unionist Party,” Burrows said.

“We must be a party that promotes the Union positively, that speaks to our traditional supporters as well as to those we want to bring with us into the future, and that offers hope, stability, and opportunity to everyone seeking a politics that works.”

The comments are likely to be viewed as an attempt to reset the party’s public message following a period of internal turbulence and heightened political pressure within unionism.

Praise for local council figures across Northern Ireland

Burrows also used the statement to publicly thank a number of Ulster Unionist councillors and civic representatives for their service over the past year.

Among those mentioned were Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick for her term as Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Jackson Minford for his service as Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, and Alderman Hazel Legge for serving as Deputy Mayor of Lisburn and Castlereagh.

He praised them for representing “all communities in their boroughs with distinction” and described them as “exceptional ambassadors” for the party.

The party leader also wished success to newly appointed representatives stepping into civic leadership roles, including Councillor Craig Blaney as Mayor in Ards and North Down, Alderman Sandra Hunter as Deputy Mayor in Causeway Coast and Glens, and Councillor Bethany Carson-Ferris as Deputy Mayor in Mid and East Antrim.

Burrows said they would have the party’s “full support” as they take on their new responsibilities.

Party faces pressure to rebuild confidence

The statement underlines the challenge now facing the Ulster Unionist Party as it attempts to stabilise internally while convincing voters it remains politically relevant in an increasingly competitive unionist landscape.

Burrows acknowledged that the road ahead “will have its challenges”, but insisted the party could recover if members remained “united, disciplined, and confident”.

His message closed with a direct appeal for solidarity within the party ranks as the Ulster Unionists seek to move beyond recent controversy and rebuild confidence ahead of future political contests.