Former SNP minister Elena Whitham stepping down as MSP at next election

Former SNP minister Elena Whitham will step down from the Scottish Parliament at the next election, saying the decision has come after “much soul searching”.

The MSP for Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley will not seek re-election in 2026.

In February, she quit her role as drugs and alcohol policy minister after revealing she is being treated for post-traumatic stress.

The former women’s aid worker first joined the Scottish Government in November 2022 as community safety minister.

Last year she was nominated in the one to watch category at the Scottish Politician of the Year awards.

A number of SNP MSPs have recently announced they are stepping down at the next election.

The deadline for SNP members to submit applications for vetting ahead of the candidate selection process passed on November 11.

Posting on social media on Monday, Ms Whitham said: “It has been the privilege of my life to serve the people of Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley as MSP for the past three-and-a-half years.

“It was also an immense honour to work on my passion for social justice across two ministerial roles. I will be forever proud of what I have achieved with the help and support of my constituents.

“After much soul searching and discussion with my loved ones, I have decided that I will not be seeking re-selection for the next Holyrood election.

“This was a difficult decision to make but one I know is right for me and my family.

“I will continue to give my all to work for the people of Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley for the next 18 months with the support of my amazing team.”