Alliance MP Soraya Eastwood for Lagan Valley has dismissed rumours of divisions within the party, including tensions between her and leader Naomi Long. She described such claims as efforts to deflect from the party's achievements and to create gossip.

Eastwood stated that reports of internal tensions are unfounded. She noted her role in Westminster keeps her fully occupied and she has no interest in party leadership at present.

The MP expressed support for Long's leadership, which has lasted nearly a decade. She pointed out that the Northern Ireland Assembly has been collapsed for much of that period, allowing Long to focus efforts more recently.

Eastwood shared a photo on X of her and Long posing together at the Alliance Party Conference, captioned to indicate all was proceeding well.

In comments to Cool FM News, Eastwood attributed the rumours to the threat the party poses to political opponents.

Alliance deputy leader Eoin Tennyson said recent poor polling for Long stems from demonisation by unionist politicians. He added that Alliance ministers made difficult decisions in the executive.