Colum Eastwood Announces Resignation as SDLP Leader, Endorses Claire Hanna as Successor
Colum Eastwood, leader of the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP), has announced his decision to step down from his position, stating that he wishes to create space for new leadership and renew the party’s momentum. Eastwood, who has led the SDLP for nine years, confirmed his decision during a press conference on Thursday, where he described his tenure as a “great privilege.”
Eastwood’s Decision to Step Down
Getty ImagesEastwood, who has been an MP for Foyle since 2019, stated that he wants to focus on his parliamentary duties and his role with the New Ireland Commission, an initiative he founded to explore the potential for Irish reunification. He will formally resign at the upcoming SDLP conference on October 5, allowing time for a new leader to be elected. In his announcement, he emphasized the demands of daily party management, remarking, “Some people maybe don’t realize how much effort you have to put in to the day-to-day running of a political party.”
Possible Successor: Claire Hanna
PA MediaDiscussing his potential successor, Eastwood voiced strong support for Claire Hanna, MP for South Belfast and Mid Down, stating she would be “far and away the best option for members.” He expressed hope that Hanna would put her name forward for the leadership role, adding, “If this is my opportunity to be the first person to endorse Claire Hanna, I’ll absolutely take it.”
Political reactions
The announcement triggered a range of reactions from political figures across Ireland and the UK. Michelle O’Neill, First Minister and leader of Sinn Féin, extended her best wishes to Eastwood, acknowledging their collaborative efforts in maintaining the political structures in Northern Ireland and safeguarding the Good Friday Agreement. Gavin Robinson, leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), praised Eastwood’s continued commitment to representing Foyle in Westminster, while Simon Harris, Ireland’s Taoiseach, highlighted Eastwood’s contributions as a “progressive, responsible, and pragmatic voice.”
Members from other parties also responded. Stephen Farry, Deputy Leader of the Alliance Party, noted their productive cooperation on various issues. Meanwhile, Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) MLA Steve Aiken and Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn commended Eastwood’s leadership, with Benn expressing anticipation for working with his successor.
A Decade of Leadership and Advocacy
Eastwood’s decision to resign comes shortly after the SDLP’s mixed results in recent elections. Despite retaining key seats in South Belfast and Mid Down, the party experienced setbacks in South Down and Upper Bann, reflecting a challenging political landscape.
At just 41, Eastwood is already a veteran of Northern Irish politics. Joining the SDLP in 1998, he became the youngest mayor of Derry City at 27 and later secured a seat in the Northern Ireland Assembly. In 2015, he successfully challenged Alasdair McDonnell for the SDLP leadership, bringing renewed attention to the party. His leadership was marked by efforts to reclaim the Foyle Westminster seat from Sinn Féin in 2019, which he achieved with a significant majority.
The Future of the SDLP
As Eastwood prepares to step down, the SDLP faces a critical period of transition. His endorsement of Claire Hanna suggests a continuity of leadership focused on progressive values and maintaining the party’s relevance in a rapidly changing political environment.
While some supporters, like Phil Langman, believe Eastwood’s resignation is well-timed, others, such as traditional voters John and Lee Mitchell, hope for a resurgence under new leadership. The future direction of the SDLP will depend significantly on the new leader’s ability to navigate complex political challenges and reconnect with its voter base.
Eastwood’s departure marks the end of an era for the SDLP, but his continued involvement in Irish politics suggests his influence will remain a factor in shaping the region’s future.
What do Colum Eastwood’s constituents think?
Michael McBride, reporting from Derry
John and Lee Mitchell said they were both stunned to hear the news.
Both traditionally SDLP voters, they said the news had “caught them off guard”.
Lee Mitchell said she hoped Claire Hanna takes over as party leader, saying she is “a very competent operator” and could improve the fortunes of the party which has struggled electorally in recent times.
“I think another woman in charge never is a bad thing,” she said.
Phil Langman, from Liverpool, who has lived in the city for 26 years, said Mr Eastwood had been a fantastic leader, but understood why he thinks now is the right time to step aside.
“I think he’s a fantastic MP, he seems like a decent man, but it must take its toll fronting a political party,” he added.
“I think anyone following in the footsteps of people like John Hume as leader will always struggle to make as much of a mark on politics here like he did.”
Trevor and Ann Porter said whoever takes over will have big shoes to fill.
Ann said the party had not been fortunate in recent elections, but still felt the Foyle MP was the best man to “steer the ship” in the years ahead.
However, one man, who did not want to give his name, said Mr Eastwood will not be missed.
“They are a dying party. I’ll absolutely not miss him,” he told BBC News NI.
