Who Will Be the New Co-Leaders of the Scottish Green Party?

The Scottish Green Party is set to announce the results of its leadership election on Friday, where two co-leaders will be elected from four nominees: Dominic Ashmole, Ross Greer, Gillian Mackay, and Lorna Slater. This election is significant as it follows a period of internal strife and policy disagreements, reflecting the party's shifting dynamics. Last updated: 13 October 2023 (BST)

• The election results will be announced at 10:00 at the Scottish Poetry Library.
• No candidates are running as a slate, allowing for various combinations of leadership.
• Three of the four nominees are currently serving Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs).
• Current co-leader Patrick Harvie is stepping down after 17 years in leadership.
• The party is navigating internal controversies and a challenging political landscape.

Background of the Leadership Election

The Scottish Green Party's leadership election comes at a pivotal moment for the party. With Patrick Harvie announcing his departure from the role of co-leader, the spotlight is on the nominees and their vision for the future. Harvie has been a prominent figure in Scottish politics, leading the party for 17 years and serving as Holyrood's longest-serving party chief. The election process began on 13 August and concluded last Friday, reflecting a desire among party members to choose new leadership that can navigate the complexities of upcoming elections and internal challenges. Historically, the party elects a male and female co-convener, but this year, the absence of a slate allows for a more flexible approach to leadership combinations.

The Candidates and Their Backgrounds

The four nominees come from diverse backgrounds, each bringing unique experiences to the table.

Lorna Slater

Lorna Slater has served as co-leader alongside Harvie since 2019 and is a Member of the Scottish Parliament for Lothian. Her tenure has been marked by significant achievements, including the party's entry into government after the Bute House Agreement with the SNP in 2021. Slater's leadership style has been collaborative, but her ability to retain her position amidst internal party challenges will be tested.

Ross Greer

Representing West Scotland, Ross Greer has been a vocal advocate for green policies and has played a key role in the party's parliamentary strategies. His youthful perspective might resonate with a base seeking a fresh approach, especially as the party grapples with its identity and direction.

Gillian Mackay

Gillian Mackay, representing Central Scotland, is also seen as a strong contender. Her experience as an MSP and her alignment with the party's core values position her as a candidate who could unify traditionalists and progressives alike, especially during a time when the party is reevaluating its future strategies.

Dominic Ashmole

Dominic Ashmole stood for the Scottish Greens in the 2024 General Election but did not secure a seat. His candidacy brings an outsider's perspective, which may appeal to members looking to shake up the status quo. Ashmole's previous campaign experiences could provide valuable insights into the upcoming elections.

The Current Political Landscape

The Scottish Greens have experienced a tumultuous period over the past year. Their coalition with the SNP, established through the Bute House Agreement, was seen as a historic achievement for a party often relegated to the peripheries of Scottish politics. However, the relationship has soured, culminating in the Greens being ousted from government following disagreements under First Minister Humza Yousaf. This power struggle has not only led to a shake-up in leadership but has also ignited what some have described as a "civil war" within the party. Discontent over regional list placings for MSPs and differing views on whether the party should adopt a more compromising stance or adhere strictly to its radical principles has sparked heated debates.

The Importance of the Leadership Election

The upcoming leadership election is crucial for the Scottish Greens as they prepare for the next Holyrood election in May 2024. The leadership team elected on Friday will need to quickly establish a clear campaign strategy that resonates with both party members and the electorate at large.

What’s at Stake?

The future direction of the Scottish Greens hinges on the leadership election outcomes. Will the party continue to pursue a path that involves compromise and collaboration with larger political entities, or will it double down on its foundational principles, positioning itself more as an activist group than a governing party? These decisions will shape the party's identity moving forward.

Potential Outcomes and Implications

While the election may not drastically alter the party's course, it will be indicative of the members' attitudes towards governance and activism.

Scenarios to Consider

• If Slater retains her position alongside a younger candidate like Greer or Mackay, the party may signal a blend of experience and youth, aiming to attract a broader voter base.
• A victory for Ashmole could indicate a desire for a more radical shift away from traditional alliances, prompting a re-evaluation of the party’s strategy.
• The dynamics of power within the party will likely influence its approach to the next Holyrood election, especially regarding policy compromises with the SNP.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for the Scottish Greens

The outcome of the leadership election will provide clarity on the Scottish Greens' position and strategy as they head into the next critical electoral period. Voters and party members alike will be keenly watching how the new leaders navigate the challenges ahead. The strategic decisions made in the coming weeks will influence the party's ability to maintain its relevance in a rapidly changing political climate. As the Scottish Greens prepare for what lies ahead, the question remains: will they embrace a more collaborative approach in pursuit of green policies, or will they stand firm in their commitment to environmental activism alone?

With significant decisions on the horizon, the Scottish Greens find themselves at a crossroads. How they choose to proceed could define their trajectory for years to come. #ScottishGreens #LeadershipElection #Holyrood2024

FAQs

When will the Scottish Green Party announce the results of the leadership election?

The results will be announced on Friday at 10:00 during an event at the Scottish Poetry Library.

Who are the candidates in the Scottish Green Party leadership election?

The candidates are Dominic Ashmole, Ross Greer, Gillian Mackay, and Lorna Slater.

What is the significance of this leadership election for the Scottish Greens?

This election is crucial as the party navigates internal controversies and prepares for the upcoming Holyrood election in May 2024.

What are the backgrounds of the candidates?

Three candidates are currently MSPs, while Ashmole recently campaigned in the 2024 General Election but did not secure a seat.

How does this election impact the party's future direction?

The elected leaders will influence whether the party pursues a collaborative approach with other parties or maintains a focus on radical environmental activism.