Oban councillor withdraws from Holyrood selection contest after ‘losing faith in the concept of a level playing field’

A Holyrood hopeful has withdrawn from a selection contest after she “lost faith” in the process.

Oban councillor Julie McKenzie was trying to become the SNP candidate for the Argyll and Bute constituency in next year’s Holyrood election.

But she announced today that she was withdrawing from the contest because of “internal party issues”.

Ms McKenzie said: “I wish to advise SNP members in Argyll and Bute that, with a great deal of sadness, I have written to the national secretary today to inform him that I have taken the difficult decision to withdraw from the Argyll and Bute SNP selection contest for the Scottish Parliament election in 2021.

Statement from Cllr Julie McKenzie pic.twitter.com/bQDkOOJiYV

— Cllr Julie McKenzie 🎗🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏳️‍🌈 (@joolsmc) October 27, 2020

“Due to internal party issues in relation to governance, procedure and impartiality I have completely lost faith in due process and the concept of a level playing field for all.

“Thank you to everyone who supports me. As ever you have my assurance that I will continue to serve my constituents in Oban North and Lorn to the very best of my ability.”

Argyll and Bute is one of a number of constituencies where there is a fierce contest expected.

The constituency has been held by the SNP since 2007 and by former education secretary Mike Russell since 2011.

The 67-year-old announced back in March that he wouldn’t seek re-election, saying it was time for someone younger to represent the constituency.

Ms McKenzie was up against Rhiannon Spear, a Glasgow City councillor who is also the national women’s convener of the SNP, Sarah Fanet, Jenni Minto and Breege Smyth.

Earlier this month, the Oban and Lorn councillor received online support after revealing she was asked who would look after her children if she was elected.

The SNP councillor, who represents the Oban North and Lorn ward, tweeted: “Question received from Argyll & Bute SNP member today.

“Julie I think you would be a great MSP, however I have to ask, if you get elected who will look after your kids?”

Ms McKenzie said: “My response…Thank you for your email. However, I have to ask, have you ever asked a male political candidate that question?!”

The SNP has been contacted for comment.