Edwin Poots is to challenge a DUP decision not to select him as the party's election candidate for South Down, close ally Jim Wells has said.
And Mr Wells said he would consider running against the DUP as an independent if the move to choose Diane Forsythe is not overturned.
Party officers on Friday night selected Ms Forsythe instead of former DUP leader Mr Poots, who was attempting to switch to the constituency from Lagan Valley.
