Patrick Harvie to step down as Greens co-leader

Patrick Harvie is to step down as co-leader of the Scottish Green Party this summer.

The Glasgow MSP, who has been at the helm of the party since 2008, said the leadership race to take place in the summer was “an important moment” for the Greens, given the Holyrood election next year.

He still intends to stand for re-election as an MSP, returning for what would be his sixth term in parliament.

The party holds leadership elections every two years. Harvie has been repeatedly re-elected, usually running unchallenged.

Making the announcement, Harvie said: “Green solutions are more necessary than ever, and we have been the only party clearly making the case for the action needed to tackle growing inequality and the climate and nature emergency. Others are happy to set targets, but then actively resist the action needed to meet them.

“I want to thank everyone who has helped the party to grow, and given me the opportunity to play a role. There is far more work ahead of us, especially as we see both UK and Scottish Governments drag their feet on climate action, and too often continue the policies which have made our society less equal.

“The election of co-leaders in a pre-election year is an important moment for the party.

“I won’t be part of the leadership team that fronts up that campaign, but I’m optimistic to see the party choose the people who will do so, and to us building on our record results and delivering the largest possible group of Green MSPs in 2026.”

Harvie became co-convener of the party in September 2008 alongside Eleanor Scott, having been an MSP since 2003.

He has also shared the role with  Martha Wardrop, Maggie Chapman and Lorna Slater.

Following the Bute House Agreement between the SNP and Greens, Harvie and Slater both enetered government for the first time in 2021. He held the position of Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenants' Rights until the Agreement was ended in 2024.

Slater is expected to stand for leadership again, while Ross Greer has long been considered a possible future leader.

But any member of the party can run for leadership, regardless of whether they are a serving MSP. Slater was elected before she entered parliament.