A FORMER long-serving SNP minister has announced that he will quit Holyrood at the 2026 elections.
Kevin Stewart, who has served as both the Scottish Government’s local government and social care minister, said he would be leaving the Edinburgh parliament for health reasons.
Stewart has represented Aberdeen Central for the SNP since 2011, and had already been chosen to contest the constituency again for the party in 2026.
Announcing his decision to step down in a letter to the First Minister, Stewart said: "As you know prior to recess I was off work for four weeks with an illness that I found very hard to shift and while I am feeling much better I am still not 100% physically fit.
"I realise that the forthcoming election campaign is vital for the SNP and for the cause of independence and I feel that I may not be able to give the full commitment that a candidate needs to give. Therefore, I have decided not stand for Holyrood in 2026 to ensure that Aberdeen Central can select an SNP candidate that can be fully focused on retaining and representing this fabulous constituency."
Stewart went on: “I am so very honoured and humbled to have been given the opportunity to represent Aberdonians in one way, shape or form for nearly 27 years; first on the council, then in parliament and also as a minister.
“It has been quite a journey for someone that never expected to hold any elected office.
“I am proud to have played a part in delivering ten new schools for Aberdeen when I chaired the 3Rs Board, I will never forget the joy of seeing people in their new homes throughout Scotland when I was housing minister, and whenever I hear the words ‘dignity, fairness and respect’, I will remember my amendment to the Welfare Funds (Scotland) Bill, which first put them into law.
“You can be assured that my efforts for Aberdeen, the SNP and the independence cause will continue and that I will give my all over the coming months.”
Stewart was a minister for local government from 2016 to 2021, then social care minister from 2021 to 2023. In 2023, he also briefly served as transport minister.
Responding to his decision to quit, SNP MP Stephen Flynn – who will run for Holyrood in 2026 – said: “Too few politicians understand the value of making young people believe that they can make a difference.
“Not Kevin. A friend and mentor like no other. I’m so sad that he won’t be returning to Holyrood. But so grateful for everything he has done for me and my family.”
First Minister John Swinney paid tribute to Stewart, saying: "He is a great friend and ally and I value enormously his contribution but he must put his health first. He has my warmest good wishes."
A total of 25 MSPs elected for the SNP in 2021 have now announced their intention to step down in 2026, including John Mason, who now sits as an independent.
