You are here

McDonnell/Ritchie to contest SDLP leadership

The SDLP today confirmed that two candidates will go forward to a leadership contest following Mark Durkan’s decision to step down as leader.

Mon 16th November

Following the close of nominations, current deputy leader Dr Alasdair McDonnell and Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie had received sufficient nominations from branches within the party.  

 A spokesman said: “Following Mark Durkan’s decision to stand down as leader of the SDLP the party’s executive committee agreed to Mr Durkan’s suggestion of bringing forward the nomination period for the appointment of his successor at annual conference in February.  

“This nomination period has now closed. In accordance with the SDLP constitution candidates for the position of party leader must receive at least five nominations from branches.  

“Two candidates have received sufficient nominations and will go forward to a leadership contest in February. They are, in alphabetical order, Dr Alasdair McDonnell and Margaret Ritchie.  

"Voting will take place at annual conference on 5-7 February 2010 at the Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle, Co Down. The polls will close at 6pm on Saturday 6 February and the result announced the following day."   

NOTE TO EDITORS   The leadership contest will take place at annual conference which will be held at the Slieve Donard Hotel between Feb 5 -7   MPs, MLAs, councillors, party officers, members of the SDLP executive and branch delegates (based on membership numbers) will be entitled to vote.

Back to Latest News

Filed Under:

You are here