Former SDLP deputy leader Seamus Mallon backing Colum Eastwood for leader
FORMER SDLP deputy leader Seamus Mallon is backing Colum Eastwood to be the new party leader.
Mr Mallon is the latest in a line of veteran SDLP politicians who are backing the Foyle to lead the party into next year’s Assembly elections.
They include Foyle MP Mark Durkan, current deputy leader Dolores Kelly and former Stormont Minister Brid Rodgers.
It is also believed he has the support former party founder and leader John Hume.
Mr Eastwood is challenging current leader Alasdair McDonnell.
The party faithful will gather at the party conference in Armagh next month to vote.
It’s a two-horse race between Mr Eastwood and current leader Dr Alasdair McDonnell.
Earlier this year, Seamus Mallon, the former deputy first minister, called on Dr McDonnell to step down as leader.
Asked about Mr Mallon’s endorsement of the Foyle MLA, Dr McDonnell said Mr Mallon was “entitled to his opinion”.
Mr Eastwood launched his leadership campaign last Friday night in Belfast.
He has the support of SDLP branches across Derry city and Co Derry.
There is also a groundswell of support for him in other parts of the country.
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