DUP MP Sammy Wilson has criticized some party colleagues for only recently coming forward with revelations about former leader Jeffrey Donaldson's past behavior, following his conviction for sex offenses. Wilson, who shared a flat with Donaldson in London, stated his surprise that damaging claims, some detailed in the BBC's "Politician, Predator and Paedophile" program, were not reported to the party hierarchy sooner.
"He [Ian Paisley Jr] seemed to have more willingness to spill his guts to Spotlight than he did to the party officers, because none of that, as far as I’m aware, was ever conveyed to the party hierarchy," Wilson said. He questioned why some individuals waited until after Donaldson's conviction to share information, particularly when they had opportunities to do so earlier.
Wilson emphasized that he had no prior knowledge of any inappropriate behavior. "I can honestly tell you that. If I had known any of that, I would have raised it with him," he stated. He noted that while he and Donaldson shared a flat, he did not witness any "inkling of that lifestyle" through their shared living space or conversations. He also pointed out that no one, including journalists who claimed to have knowledge, ever approached him to inquire about Donaldson's conduct.
Other DUP figures have also spoken out, with Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and veteran MP Gregory Campbell asserting they did not witness any disturbing behavior from Donaldson. Campbell, who occasionally shared meals with Donaldson, suggested that Donaldson might have been careful to avoid misbehavior in environments where other MPs were present. Both Little-Pengelly and Campbell expressed shock and betrayal upon learning of Donaldson's actions.
Jim Allister, leader of the TUV, commented that the scandal has caused significant "brand damage" to the DUP, arguing that the party's decision to elevate Donaldson to leadership despite a "background of knowledge and suspicion" was a misstep. Allister also expressed concern that the revelations might alienate unionist voters.
The Northern Ireland Assembly has initiated a review into Donaldson's conduct during his time as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) between 2003 and 2010. This review, led by the director of parliamentary services and the assembly's senior safeguarding officer, is expected to conclude by August 28. Concurrently, the DUP has appointed child safety expert Jim Gamble to lead an independent review into Donaldson's behavior within the party. Ian Paisley Jr indicated his intention to cooperate with Gamble's inquiry when it is established.