Former Green Minister to Challenge SNP Culture Secretary in Key Holyrood Constituency
A former Scottish Green minister has announced she will stand against the SNP's Culture Secretary in this year's Holyrood elections, setting up one of the most closely watched political contests in Scotland.
High-Profile Edinburgh Central Contest
Lorna Slater, who served as Circular Economy Minister during the SNP/Green power-sharing alliance, will compete with her former government colleague Angus Robertson in the Edinburgh Central constituency. The Scottish Greens have described this seat as becoming one of the most high-profile contests in the entire country.
Mr Robertson has faced significant criticism for what opponents describe as being 'asleep at the wheel' during the crisis at the Historic Environment Scotland quango. He has also been branded 'Air Miles Angus' by political rivals because of the substantial number of overseas trips he has undertaken during his tenure.
Green Alternative Promised
Scottish Greens co-leader Gillian Mackay stated: 'Edinburgh Central deserves an MSP who will challenge complacency and push for faster, fairer change. Lorna will make the case for bolder action on housing, climate and inequality, as the cost-of-living crisis continues to spiral out of control.'
She added: 'This will be a closely watched contest, and we are confident that people in Edinburgh Central will respond to a positive and principled candidate that offers a real Green alternative and future.'
Controversial Backgrounds
Both candidates bring controversial elements to this electoral battle. Ms Slater has faced substantial criticism for alleged mismanagement of plans to introduce a deposit return scheme when she was in government. The former co-leader of the Scottish Greens was particularly blamed for the failure of the bottle return scheme that became a significant political issue.
Her decision to stand could potentially damage the SNP's prospects of retaining a seat it won in 2021, as it may split the pro-independence vote between the two candidates.
Call for Bold Change
Ms Slater commented: 'For too long, politics in our city has been dominated by the same voices, offering continuity rather than the bold change people need and want. At a time of deepening inequality, comfortable-continuity simply is not enough. Our community needs bold action. Edinburgh Central needs an MSP who will focus on practical measures to cut the cost of living.'
Wider Field of Candidates
The Edinburgh Central contest features several other candidates beyond the two high-profile contenders. These include Conservative councillor Jo Mowat, Labour councillor James Dalgleish, and former Lib Dem councillor Charles Dundas, creating a multi-party battle for this significant parliamentary seat.
This election will test whether voters in this key constituency prefer continuity with the established SNP representative or are ready to embrace the Green alternative being offered by a former government minister with both ministerial experience and controversial policy history.
