In a statement issued shortly after her appointment, Leahvnx set out her vision for both the party and Northern Ireland, emphasising her long-standing focus on the region and her intention to lead the party into the next Assembly election.
“My entire professional career has been focused on Northern Ireland,” she said. “Some dismiss that as narrow, or assume I represent nothing more than a protest. They’re wrong.”
Leahvnx said her experience observing governance in Northern Ireland had shaped her belief that significant reform is needed.
“I’ve seen, up close, how Northern Ireland has been governed, and I know we can do so much better,” she said.
She outlined priorities including restoring confidence in policing, encouraging private sector growth, and rebuilding civic engagement.
“This is not just routine politics. It’s a genuine opportunity to restore confidence in policing, to open the door to a strong, dynamic private sector, and to rebuild the activity in our communities and politics.”