Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly has called on political leaders to stand against threats to UUP staff members by loyalist paramilitaries and call unequivocally for these groups to disband immediately.

The party’s policing spokesperson said:

“It’s been reported that threats against UUP staff members have been issued by elements within the UDA.

“This group has recently been involved in murder, extortion, threats and intimidation.

“This is a time for political leadership – people should be free to campaign politically without fear of intimidation.

“These dangerous and reckless threats are an attack on the whole democratic process and on freedom of expression.

“The DUP recently met with loyalist representatives – including the UDA.

“Instead of the DUP costing up to these group for electoral pacts, they should unequivocally condemn these threats and call for these groups to disband immediately.”