Ed Reckless, the incoming president of Loughborough University’s student union, is to stand down from the position, following a petition calling for his resignation.
The online petition, which gained over 3,500 signatures, was set up last week after it emerged Reckless was banned from the university’s student union building during the campaigning period for allegedly slapping a woman in the face twice on a night out.
In a statement, the student union says: “After deliberation following consultation with key stakeholders of both the union and the university, Ed accepts that this incident stands in the way of ... his success in the role and has, therefore, decided to stand down.”
The union also says that it has “begun a review of its constitutional procedures and discipline policy”, and that “arrangements are now being made for a new presidential election to take place early in the forthcoming summer term”.
In a statement, Reckless says: “I do not condone my actions and deeply regret how I conducted myself ... I sincerely apologise to all involved and those who feel this makes me unsuitable to be president.
“In order to fulfil the role of president effectively, it is crucial to have a strong working relationship with the university and its staff.
“Since it is apparent I will not have the support or relationships desired ... I am standing down from my position as union president elect.”
Reckless had previously stated that he “did not feel the incident had any bearing on his ability to fulfill the role”.
The decision has split opinion on Twitter:
Thrilled that Ed Reckless has resigned from president of Loughborough SU. Ridiculous that he was ever allowed to run
— ♀ Neely ♀ (@LucyCMorgan) March 31, 2015
If Ed Reckless hit a guy there's no way the petition would have been made and there's no way he would be made to stand down ✋Ridiculous
— Seana (@SeanaCullen) March 31, 2015
:( gutted for Ed reckless #democracyshouldrule
— Laura E Dodman (@lauradodman) March 31, 2015
Yes Ed Reckless was democratically elected BUT it was also because we have democracy that people were able to oppose. Get over it. #justice
— Alexandra (@keilyalex) March 31, 2015
Keep up with the latest on Guardian Students: follow us on Twitter at @GdnStudents – and become a member to receive exclusive benefits and our weekly newsletter.
