Scottish Labour begins candidate search ahead of 2026 election

Aspiring MSPs can now submit declarations of interest before the formal selection process begins later this year.

Scottish Labour begins candidate search ahead of 2026 Holyrood election — Anas Sarwar says the party is looking for people who are 'passionate about our values, but who are also champions for their communities'. Getty Images

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Scottish Labour

Scottish Labour has started its search for candidates to stand in the 2026 Holyrood election.

The party has opened its process for aspiring MSPs to submit declarations of interest ahead of the formal selection process beginning later this year.

Party leader Anas Sarwar said they were looking for people who are “passionate about our values, but who are also champions for their communities”.

“If you believe in making a difference and that Scotland’s best days lie ahead, we want to hear from you,” he added.

“This is about building a team with the breadth of skills, expertise, and experience needed to deliver a better future for Scotland.

“We want to add the best new talent to our already talented group of MSPs who are working every day in the Scottish Parliament to deliver the best for Scotland.”

Polls have put Labour neck-and-neck with the SNP in the Holyrood vote, with the misery endured by the Tories across the UK also being felt north of the border.

Sarwar added: “Under the SNP, Scotland’s NHS, schools, and public services are facing significant challenges — but it doesn’t have to be this way.

“In 2026, Scots will have the opportunity to elect a government focused on delivering real change.

“Scotland deserves a brighter future—and that is what Scottish Labour is determined to deliver.”