A Pivotal Moment for the Scottish Greens: Who Will Lead the Charge?

The Scottish Green Party is poised to announce its new co-leaders this coming Friday, following a closely watched leadership election. The party will choose from four nominees: Dominic Ashmole, Ross Greer, Gillian Mackay, and Lorna Slater—all of whom bring unique experiences to the table. Notably, Slater has been serving as co-leader since 2019 alongside Patrick Harvie, who has announced his departure from the leadership role after a 17-year tenure. Traditionally, the party elects a male and female co-convener, and this election marks a significant moment as no candidates are forming a slate, meaning any two of the four can win.

Three candidates are currently sitting Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs). Slater, an MSP for Lothian, is defended her leadership role amidst rising tensions within the party. Her co-nominees include Greer, who represents West Scotland, and Mackay of Central Scotland. Meanwhile, Ashmole, who has also run in the recent 2024 General Election, comes in with less parliamentary experience but with valuable insights.

The party election ballot ran from August 13 to last Friday, reflecting a period of intense scrutiny within the party, especially after the fallout from the Bute House Agreement that resulted in the Greens being part of the coalition government with the Scottish National Party (SNP).

This leadership transition unfolds against a backdrop of a party experiencing internal strife dubbed a “civil war,” particularly regarding the regional list placements for MSPs ahead of the next election. The recent government partnership ended amid disagreements over policy directions under new SNP leadership, creating pivotal debates on the party’s future identity: Should they act as a prospective party of government by compromising on certain issues, or should they adhere strictly to their radical principles?

As the Scottish Greens prepare for a critical campaign season leading up to the Holyrood elections next May, the selected co-leaders will need to navigate these complex dynamics quickly. Their leadership styles could significantly influence the party’s path as they seek to maintain their relevance and expand their influence in Scottish politics.