Sex abuse trial of former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson begins in Belfast

Jury selection has begun in the trial of former Democratic Unionist Party leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, who faces 18 charges including rape. Donaldson has pleaded not guilty to all counts. The case marks a significant moment in Northern Irish politics.

Jury selection got underway in Belfast on Monday in the highly anticipated trial of Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, the former leader of Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party, who stands accused of 18 separate criminal charges, including one count of rape.

Donaldson, who led the DUP until his resignation in March 2024 following the emergence of the allegations, has entered a plea of not guilty to all 18 counts brought against him. The charges relate to allegations of historical sexual abuse spanning a number of years.

The trial is expected to attract significant public attention given Donaldson's prominent political career. He served as a leading figure in unionist politics for decades, playing a key role in Northern Ireland's peace process and representing the Lagan Valley constituency at Westminster for many years before his abrupt departure from public life.

His resignation came hours before the Police Service of Northern Ireland announced his arrest in connection with the allegations. The charges against him were subsequently filed, setting the stage for what is expected to be a lengthy legal proceeding.