Dr William Kitchen has announced he will contest Lagan Valley for TUV in the upcoming Assembly election.
Dr Kitchen said:
“I’m delighted to announce my candidacy for TUV, standing for election in Lagan Valley.
“I’ve been asked on numerous occasions, “why TUV?” The answer is simple: the party represents the brand of Unionism with which I most clearly identify. In this ’50 shades of Unionism’ political arena, the TUV stands firm on its core principles and messages. It has been unrelenting in its opposition to the key challenge facing Unionists today: the Protocol, and this battlecry ought not to be ignored. So, I am stepping into this arena to seek to make a difference for the grassroots Unionists and Loyalists who consider this the seminal moment for this generation of Unionists.
“I have no interest in being a ‘small u’ unionist, nor participating in the self-preserving unionism which puts party before people. The TUV is a bastion of hope to Unionists seeking a new home; a party who will fight for the key Unionist principles and ideals which are on the verge of destruction, lest we rally to defend them.
“Yet, in our resolute defense of those ideals, we must also offer a positive message of Unionism to those who may never have considered it before. I want to contest this campaign with one key message: the lives of people in Northern Ireland are better served within a strong and vibrant Union; one in which Northern Ireland plays a central role in creating a sustainable economy, a fit-for-purpose NHS, a world-class education system, and opportunities for social mobility. The case for this Union will be taken to the people of Lagan Valley, where I hope I can convince them that I can deliver for them in the Assembly.
“It is clear that this constituency will be hotly contested. The ballot is strong, and the candidates are all fighting to win. I send a clear and pointed message to my opponents: the TUV are not here to just make up the numbers. We are here to fight, with determination and resolve, to showcase positive and principled Unionism is alive, well, and deserving of people’s vote.
“As a proud Unionist, it is my honour and privilege to fight this battle for grassroots Unionists across the constituency. I am determined, at the very least, to challenge the existing political orthodoxy, and to overthrow the shameful complacency which has permeated The Assembly, and led to substandard political representation for our electorate. A vote for the TUV in Lagan Valley is a vote for positive and principled Unionism!
Commenting TUV leader Jim Allister said:
“I am delighted to welcome Dr Kitchen to the TUV team. He brings fresh thinking and ideas to Unionism and offers the people of Lagan Valley to vote for a truly exceptional candidate who brings youth and enthusiasm to politics.
“Being the seat of both the current First Minister and the Agriculture Minister who is implementing the Protocol, Lagan Valley will be a hotly contested constituency. As this selection shows TUV is not there just to make up the numbers in Lagan Valley but are serious about taking a seat. I look forward to William joining me on the Stormont benches.”