Interim DUP leader Gavin Robinson has said that his party is “not about any one individual” after Sir Jeffrey Donaldson resigned with immediate effect yesterday in light of historic allegations.
The 61-year-old was suspended from the party too, as per standing orders, after he had confirmed that he had been charged.
On Saturday, Mr Robinson spoke for the first time on being elevated to interim leader on Friday and said he was “honoured”.
He said: “Yesterday our Party Officers received the resignation of Jeffrey Donaldson as leader of the Party. He has been suspended from our membership pending the outcome of a judicial process.
“Following this, the Party Officers have appointed me as interim leader.
“Our thoughts are with those suffering and who have put their faith in our criminal justice system. The police service and courts must be allowed to complete their processes without interference. Nothing that any of us say or do, must in anyway compromise that process.
“There will be some who will attempt to score cheap political points, but I know that colleagues and friends across Northern Ireland will ignore the noise and focus on what really matters.
“The Democratic Unionist Party is not about any one individual. We are a party of MPs, MLAs, Councillors, and scores of dedicated members across all parts of Northern Ireland. We exist to build a better and stronger Northern Ireland within the United Kingdom.
“I am honoured to take up the position of interim leader of the Party. I wish you all a happy and peaceful Easter break.”
