Two DUP councillors from South Down have resigned from the party.
Glyn Hanna and Kathryn Owen are among a number of members from that branch of the DUP to step down over concerns about the new direction of the party under new leader Edwin Poots.
Ms Owen claimed that women and moderates in the party were being left "voiceless".
A spokesperson for the DUP said that the South Down Association held its AGM on Saturday.
"Some of the members who have resigned, sought re-election to hold office within the party. It is disappointing they have chosen to resign from the party, following the outcome of the meeting.
"We thank them for their service."
The spokesperson said that the DUP takes these matters very seriously and any complaints should be made in writing to enable a thorough and fair investigation.
