Paisley replaced as leader of Free Presbyterian Church

Ian Paisley wakes this morning no longer leader of the Free Presbyterian Church, which he founded 57 years ago.

Ian Paisley wakes this morning no longer leader of the Free Presbyterian Church, which he founded 57 years ago.

However, he will remain on as a minister of the church.

Realising he was facing serious dissent from within the church over the DUP power-sharing deal with Sinn Féin, Ian Paisley announced he was standing down three months ago.

Last night, his church elected his successor, the Rev Ron Johnston from Armagh, who had been Mr Paisley's deputy.

Many have predicted the demise of the Free Presbyterian church, which believes in the literal truth of Genesis and views the Pope as the anti-Christ, after Ian Paisley stepped down as its leader, but it shows no signs of disappearing.

Asked if reports he would not defend his North Antrim Westminster seat were true, Mr Paisley said last night that he would not be chased out his job.

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