Mrs Long, the former East Belfast MP, will stand alongside current East Belfast MLA Chris Lyttle and Councillor Tim Morrow on the Alliance ticket after being selected at a meeting of the party’s East Belfast Association last night (Thursday).
The three candidates said they believe there is a real appetite for an increased Alliance representation to build a united community in East Belfast and across Northern Ireland.
“I am delighted to have received this nomination on behalf of Alliance,” said Mrs Long.
“East Belfast has been my home all my life and I was truly honoured to have represented it for almost 15 years as a councillor, MLA and then MP. I am excited to have the chance to do that once again and I couldn’t have asked for better running mates – both Chris and Tim are experienced elected representatives and committed to delivering for everyone in East Belfast.”
“It is my privilege to serve the people of East Belfast and I believe passionately a strong Alliance team will help us to build the united community and strong economy we need to deliver for everyone and challenge the status quo,” said Mr Lyttle.
“I also want to pay tribute to my Assembly colleague Judith Cochrane, who decided some time ago to step down. Judith worked tirelessly on a wide range of issues for her constituents.”
“Voters have a chance to contribute to that by taking a step forward for peace, social inclusion and prosperity by voting Alliance in May.”