Eilidh Munro Launches Campaign to Succeed Kate Forbes in SNP

The campaign to succeed Kate Forbes as the Scottish National Party (SNP) candidate has officially commenced with the adoption of Eilidh Munro during a weekend event in Ross-shire. Munro aims to retain the constituency amid a formidable challenge from the Liberal Democrats, led by Andrew Baxter, who seeks to reclaim the seat for the first time since its redesignation in 2011.

The gathering featured prominent party figures, including First Minister John Swinney and Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, alongside Maree Todd, the Minister for Drugs and Alcohol from the neighbouring Caithness, Sutherland and Ross constituency. The presence of such high-ranking politicians highlights the SNP’s commitment to maintaining control over the seat, especially as it faces its most significant challenge in years.

In addition to Munro and Baxter, candidates from other parties are also in contention. Helen Crawford represents the Scottish Conservative party, Isla McCay is running for Labour, and Stuart Jackson stands for the Sovereignty party. Notably, none of these parties have held this constituency since the devolution era.

During an interview with The Ross-shire Journal, Munro reflected on the challenges of stepping into Forbes’ role, acknowledging that it requires fulfilling significant responsibilities. “Absolutely it is big shoes to fill. I’ve worked in politics for almost five years now, and I’ve seen a lot behind the scenes,” she stated. Munro, who currently works in the office of Alistair Allan MSP, emphasized the importance of understanding the demands of a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) and the influence they can wield in addressing constituents’ needs.

Munro outlined her priorities should she be elected in the scheduled 2026 Scottish Parliament elections. “I would want to feel like I had delivered on representing constituents directly and helping with specific issues because that is the bread and butter of the job,” she said. She expressed particular concern for social care and childcare, especially in rural areas, highlighting the disparities in access compared to urban settings.

In discussing energy policy, Munro mentioned her desire to see energy bills reduced, noting that this issue falls under the UK government’s jurisdiction. “If we can achieve independence, obviously as well, I want independence – I will have that, please,” she added, indicating her commitment to Scotland’s autonomy.

The path to campaigning and potentially representing a constituency as vast as Skye, Badenoch, and Lochaber poses unique challenges, especially for female politicians who may face heightened scrutiny. Munro acknowledged the difficulties of managing public perception, stating, “I think that is something that you have to be prepared to face because that just seems to be the way that people want to judge others.”

In response to concerns about hostility in political environments, she emphasized the importance of balance, particularly as a mother of two young boys. “I’ve got two wee boys – they’re in primary school just now, so making sure I’m seeing them enough, I’m going to have to plan it really well,” she noted.

Endorsements for Munro have already begun, most notably from Kate Forbes herself. Forbes expressed her confidence in Munro’s capabilities, stating, “I can’t think of a more capable successor than Eilidh Munro – she is everything I would like to see in a candidate and more.” Forbes highlighted Munro’s deep understanding of the Highlands and her potential to continue the progress made in the constituency over the past decade.

As the race for the SNP candidacy intensifies, Munro is poised to embrace the challenges ahead, bolstered by the support of her party and a clear vision for the future of her constituents.