Deal Sealed Amid Leaks, Tweets, and Accusations of Deceit

Well past midnight, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson confirmed the DUP's return to a power-sharing government after a 726-day hiatus, showcasing his leadership resolve and negotiation skills.

However, these developments may come at a cost to Donaldson, a former Ulster Unionist.

The secluded Larchfield Estate, chosen for security, hosted the executive meeting. Attendees weren't informed of the location until three hours prior.

Yet, they were met with Loyalist songs, Union Jacks, and accusations of betrayal—a situation that was now painfully internal.

Outside, ex-DUP members like Mel Lucas and David Clarke, who had resigned from the party, claimed issues like internal bullying.

Inside, security lapsed as loyalist blogger Jamie Bryson live-tweeted the confidential proceedings, causing an uproar and leading to accusations against PSNI officers as leaks, which the police denied.

Donaldson addressed the media after midnight, expressing disappointment and a sense of betrayal but downplaying some of the reported drama. More than external protests, the betrayal from within and Bryson's real-time disclosure posed serious concerns.

Despite the turmoil, Donaldson concluded a politically challenging day with a victory, although the party's full acceptance of the deal remains uncertain. The scenario mirrored Donaldson's past resistance as a critic in the Ulster Unionist Party.

One couldn't help but speculate on the opinion of Donaldson's former rival, Lord Trimble, regarding the internal conflict—a conflict that, if Twitter had existed during the Good Friday Agreement negotiations, might have jeopardized its success.