Story perspectives

Scottish Labour Struggles Amid Leadership Turmoil and Election Woes

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Scottish Labour is forecast to finish third in May's Holyrood elections, behind Reform and the Conservatives.
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar's call for Keir Starmer to resign backfired, strengthening Starmer.
Sarwar's actions highlight Scottish Labour's struggle to assert independence, often seen as Westminster's branch.
The party's frequent leadership changes hinder its ability to control its narrative.
As it grapples with its identity, questions remain about adapting to Scotland's political landscape.

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Story summary

Scottish Labour is forecast to finish third in May's Holyrood elections, behind Reform and the Conservatives.
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar's call for Keir Starmer to resign backfired, strengthening Starmer.
Sarwar's actions highlight Scottish Labour's struggle to assert independence, often seen as Westminster's branch.
The party's frequent leadership changes hinder its ability to control its narrative.
As it grapples with its identity, questions remain about adapting to Scotland's political landscape.