Carla Lockhart Resigns from DUP Over Michelle O'Neill First Minister Disagreement

Carla Lockhart, Member of Parliament for Upper Bann, has resigned from the Democratic Unionist Party with immediate effect. Her departure stems from a public dispute regarding the role of Michelle O'Neill as First Minister.

Ms Lockhart had previously advocated for the DUP to take action to remove Ms O'Neill from office. This position is understood to be in direct contradiction to the party's current strategy, which involves working within the power-sharing arrangements at Stormont.

The MP's resignation letter did not elaborate on specific grievances beyond the stated policy difference, but sources indicate a growing frustration within certain DUP factions regarding the party's direction. Her decision marks a notable schism within the DUP's parliamentary ranks, potentially signalling deeper divisions over the party's engagement with the devolved administration.

The DUP has not yet issued a formal statement regarding Ms Lockhart's resignation, nor has it commented on the implications for its internal unity or its approach to power-sharing in Northern Ireland.