Dear reader

The build-up is continuing to Friday’s keenly anticipated DUP leadership election between Edwin Poots and Sir Jeffrey Donaldson. 

At the weekend Sir Jeffrey outlined his vision for the party, saying he would shake-up party rules and would consult on the possibility of having two deputy leaders going forward. 

On Monday, Mr Poots, the agriculture minister, published a five-page manifesto, in which he ferociously criticised how the DUP has operated in recent years and vowed to end the power of unelected party workers. 

Meanwhile, Steve Aiken formally confirmed his resignation as leader of the Ulster Unionists, admitting that he had had his limitations in the role. 

In this analysis piece, Sam McBride wrote that Mr Aiken fatally undermined himself before he had even formally taken over the leadership.  

Alex Kane, meanwhile, described the former submarine commander as a decent man, but said he was “much too nice” to lead a political party. 

Doug Beattie has emerged as the overwhelming favourite to succeed Mr Aiken.

Alistair Bushe
Editor

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