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John Swinney is the only official candidate to become the SNP’s next leader after party activist Graham McCormick announced his candidacy.
Mr McCormick, who entered the leadership race at the last minute, said he would “not proceed” with the nomination and would instead support Mr Swinney.
The Perthshire North MSP is now the leading candidate to replace Humza Yousaf as Scotland’s next First Minister.
Mr McCormick told the PA news agency that he “meets the party’s stated criteria” but that after “a long and fruitful conversation” with Mr Swinney, he had decided to give his full support instead. .
McCormick writes: “John and I agreed on the challenges facing the SNP, the government and the people, and explored new ways of thinking on a range of issues that, as they move forward, will inspire activists within and outside the SNP. I’m sure.” In the weeks and months that followed, the independence movement began.
“This is a fresh start for our MPs and politicians and I am confident that John’s determination to achieve independence will pay off in the upcoming general election.
“I have therefore come to the conclusion that I will not proceed with the nomination as leader and will instead support the nomination of John Swinney as leader and first minister for Scotland.”
Mr McCormick told reporters over the weekend that he expected to secure the required 100 nominations from 20 chapters, but this had not yet been formally confirmed.
Mr Swinney, who described himself as the candidate to unify the party after a “difficult” few years, said an election campaign would delay the SNP’s essential rebuilding.
However, he hinted that he intends to win the potential contest, saying: sky news He said party members “probably know the outcome” between the two candidates.
Mr Swinney is expected to be nominated as the next SNP leader, and there is a possibility that he will replace Mr Yousaf as Scotland’s first first minister at Holyrood elections later this week.
The SNP said it does not comment on such matters.