Council leader and former MP vying to fight Falkirk East seat for SNP
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The person who does replace current MSP Angus MacDonald – who announced he would not seek re-election in 2021 – will be a woman as Falkirk East will have an all-female shortlist.Cecil Meiklejohn, currently leader of Falkirk Council and councillor for Falkirk North, announced that she was standing, saying: “Having been brought up in Bo’ness and Grangemouth, and currently represent Falkirk district as Leader of Falkirk Council, I am a local candidate who always puts the needs of our communities first.“I know how tough things have been. Leading the Council throughout this pandemic has highlighted the challenges we face as a society, and I have seen, first hand, just how hard this has hit.“Yet there has been hope in our communities too. I believe that together we can build on that and take Falkirk East, and all of our communities, people and businesses forward.”Another local councillor, Laura Murtagh, who represents Carse, Kinnaird and Tryst, also announced that she was seeking the nomination.She said: “As a local SNP councillor and resident of Falkirk East constituency, I feel passionate about the area I both live in and serve.“After 23 years campaigning for independence as an SNP member, I believe I have the experience, passion and drive to fight for the unique needs of local people and argue passionately for a socially just, sustainable and Independent Scotland.”Also vying for the opportunity to fight the 2021 election is former MP, Michelle Thomson.Announcing her intention on social media, she said: “After being approached by members from Falkirk East, I am delighted to accept their request to seek selection as their SNP candidate in the Scottish Parliament elections of 2021.“I have been an independence supporter all my life having joined the SNP aged 16.“I am not a career politician and care passionately about independence and the betterment of Scotland.”Ms Thomson previously hit the headlines when she resigned the party whip while police were investigating property deals carried out by a solicitor struck off for misconduct whose services she used.Another would-be candidate hoping to win the nomination is Sue Friel, who lives in Linlithgow.Announcing her campaign, she said: “I want us to build a fair and equitable Scotland, with a sustainable economy and wellbeing at its core.“Only independence can give us the powers to do this.“If selected as SNP candidate for Falkirk East I will work hard, leading from the front with this positive message.”Women have until Monday, September 14 to put their nominations forward after which SNP members in the Falkirk East constituency will meet to choose their candidate to stand in the Scottish Parliament elections next year.
Mr MacDonald has been the MSP since 2011.
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