The former convener of Orkney Islands Council has ruled himself out of challenging for leadership of the authority.
Steven Heddle was re-elected to the Kirkwall East ward last week and served as convener of the council for the last five years.
The council will split the senior positions into a political leader and convener for the first time, following the model established by Western Isles and Shetland council.
Mr Heddle said he would have been “honoured” to take the leadership again if he was sure he the support of most of the council.
He added: I had hoped that my record of firm and fair leadership of a council of equals with no favourites alongside the bold ambition and success of our work and new working relationships with our fellow island councils might have achieved this.
“I have not canvassed members for their opinions or support, but I am informed, and believe, that this is not the case – a number of members wish to see a change in leadership on the bases of political disagreement, personal ambition, or for other reasons.
“I say this with no bitterness or rancour, I respect difference of opinion and applaud ambition, although as a matter of record I do not believe I have brought party politics into the chamber, nor do I belong to a political party.
“I do not wish to see the council split into sides on the basis of personal allegiance, or to lead such a council, or to inflict such a council onto another leader.”
Following last week’s election, the council is made up of 18 independents, two members of the Orkney Manifesto Group and a Green.