Anas Sarwar says ‘national wave’ against Labour responsible for Holyrood result
Anas Sarwar attributed Scottish Labour’s worst devolution result—winning just 17 MSP seats and tying with Reform UK in second place—to a 'national wave' against the party. He accepted responsibility for the campaign strategy but insisted the defeat reflected broader UK-wide trends, while vowing to remain leader and hold the SNP government to account.
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar blamed a 'national wave' against the party for its historic defeat in the Holyrood election, securing only 17 MSPs—the party’s worst result since devolution. The outcome tied Labour with Reform UK for second place, behind the SNP’s fifth consecutive term in government. Sarwar acknowledged the result was 'disappointing and hurtful,' though he insisted it reflected broader UK-wide trends, including losses in Welsh and English local elections. Sarwar took full responsibility for Labour’s campaign strategy, admitting the party failed to replicate its success in the 2023 Hamilton by-election. He stated the campaign aimed to 'cut through the national noise' but ultimately fell short, leading to the defeat. Despite the setback, Sarwar confirmed he would remain as Scottish Labour leader, emphasizing his role in uniting the party and holding the SNP government accountable. The election marked Labour’s first time losing control of the Senedd in Wales since devolution, alongside poor showings in English councils. Sarwar noted the 'national wave' against Labour extended across the UK, though he refused to speculate on his leadership beyond the next Holyrood election in five years. He described himself as the longest-serving party leader at Holyrood, a rare achievement for a Scottish Labour politician. Looking ahead, Sarwar pledged to focus on delivering for Scotland while ensuring the SNP government is held to its promises. He stressed the need for an 'effective opposition' and a functioning democracy, framing his priority as both stabilizing the party and scrutinizing the new administration’s record.
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