DUP Leader Resigns Amid Historical Sexual Crimes Allegations: What You Need to Know

The historic leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) of Northern Ireland, Jeffrey Donaldson, resigned from his position on Friday following accusations of crimes of a historical nature against him. The Irish and Northern Irish media reported the arrest of a 61-year-old man and a 57-year-old woman for sexual crimes of a historical nature, according to a statement from the Police of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

The DUP confirmed in a statement that they were cutting ties with Donaldson and suspending him as a member pending the outcome of the judicial process. The first court hearing has been set for April 24 in the courts of Newry, Northern Ireland. Unfortunately, due to Irish legislation protecting victims of crimes against sexual freedom, the identities of the accused individuals have not been disclosed by the PSNI.

Donaldson led the revolt of Northern Irish unionists against the Irish Protocol following the treaty to fit Northern Ireland into the post-Brexit era. He negotiated an agreement with Sinn Féin to end two years worth of blockage at Stormont Parliament and Executive, allowing her to become Prime Minister of Northern Ireland for Sinn Féin – making history as she was the first leader from her party to hold this position.

This resignation is significant because Donaldson also holds a seat in UK House