Writing for the Record, Labour MP Zubir Ahmed has backed Michael Marra to become the next Scottish Labour leader, describing him as the party's best street fighter.
Why Marra?
Ahmed, who quit as a health minister four days after the election count, argues that Marra, a trained economist and Scottish Labour's finance spokesman, has the skills to take on the SNP effectively. He says Marra doesn't just attack the SNP with anger but uses their own numbers to expose their decisions.
Ahmed writes: "That's why he's the best street fighter we have. Anyone can be angry at the SNP. Loads of us are. Michael takes their own numbers and walks them back through their own decisions until the minister has nowhere left to stand."
Glasgow and beyond
While acknowledging the argument for a west-based leader due to Glasgow's importance in next May's council elections, Ahmed says previous Glasgow leaders haven't delivered lasting success. He highlights ongoing issues in the city, including families in temporary accommodation and high drug death rates.
He argues that Glasgow's fortunes are determined by a budget document published in Edinburgh every December, which has squeezed the council for 20 years. Marra, he says, understands this and can articulate it clearly.
Reform and the party's future
Ahmed also addresses the rise of Reform, calling it a "malignant force" that trades on insecurity. He believes the party's appeal can be countered by improving wages, access to GP appointments, and fairness. He admits Marra was part of the shadow cabinet that lost the election but praises him for owning up to it, unlike others in the party.
He also acknowledges other candidates, Monica Lennon and Joe Fagan, saying they "deserve better than a nod," but insists the party needs someone who can follow the money and demand more from those in power at Holyrood.
