A councillor at the centre of former UUP leader Doug Beattie’s resignation has removed any reference to the Ulster Unionist Party from his social media accounts.
Cllr Darryl Wilson, who represents the Ballymoney area on Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, previously spoke of how he was “disillusioned and heartbroken” to be overlooked for the Assembly seat vacated by Robin Swann following the UK General Election.
At the time, it had been reported that then party leader Doug Beattie favoured Cllr Wilson for the role only to be vetoed by party officers and the seat was then offered to Colin Crawford.
Days later, Doug Beattie announced that he was to stand down as leader of the party, citing irreconcilable differences with party officers.
When contacted by Belfast Live on Friday, Councillor Wilson refused to comment on his future within politics and if he had any plans to defect to another party. Later on Friday, Cllr Wilson removed all mention of the Ulster Unionist Party from his social media accounts, including changing his X handle from @DarrylUUP to @CllrDarrylW.
Earlier this week, Cllr Wilson took to social media to reflect on the year that has passed and some of the challenges he faced.
“This year has brought its challenges, with many high points and some low moments as well. However, I firmly believe that it is essential to focus on the positives and to learn from the less favorable [sic] experiences. A new year presents the perfect opportunity to reflect, adapt, and change what isn’t working,” he said.
“As such, there will be some significant changes ahead for me in politics. That said, I want to assure you all that my commitment remains steadfast: to serve the people of Ballymoney and always put community and country above party politics.”
The Ulster Unionist Party have been approached for comment.
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