Ex-DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson faces sex abuse trial in Northern Ireland

Former Democratic Unionist Party leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson is set to face prosecution in a sex abuse trial in Northern Ireland. The ex-MP has pleaded not guilty to all 18 charges against him, including one count of rape.

Former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson is facing a major sex abuse trial in Northern Ireland, as prosecutors prepare to open their case against the one-time senior politician. Donaldson, who previously served as a Member of Parliament, has denied all wrongdoing in the case.

The former MP has entered not guilty pleas to all 18 charges he faces. Among the most serious allegations is one count of rape, alongside a range of other sex abuse-related charges. The trial marks a significant moment for Northern Irish politics, as Donaldson was once one of the region's most prominent unionist figures.

Donaldson stepped down as DUP leader in March 2024 after it emerged he had been arrested in connection with the allegations. His departure sent shockwaves through the party and the broader political establishment in Northern Ireland. The prosecution is now set to present its case before the court as the trial proceeds.