Full Breakdown
John Cleese Urges St Andrews Students to Reject Green MSP Q Manivannan as Rector
By Drooid · · How we work
The Rectorial Contest and Its Stakes
The University of St Andrews will hold its triennial rector election online on Thursday October 15 and Friday October 16. Six candidates are standing, including actor Brian Baumgartner (known for *The Office*) and Green Party MSP Q Manivannan. The rector chairs the university Court and represents the student body for a three-year term; the role is unpaid, with travel expenses covered.
Q Manivannan, an Indian-born non-binary MSP elected to Holyrood in May, announced that a graduate visa has been extended, allowing residence and work in the UK until 2029. They hold a doctorate in international relations from St Andrews and have previously served as an Assistant Warden and teaching assistant.
Background to the Rape-Spectrum Comments
In a podcast recorded last year, Manivannan said there is a “demonisation of rape” and described rape as existing on a “spectrum”. The clip was later circulated without full context, prompting public outcry. Manivannan later said the excerpt was “maliciously edited”, that the words “have caused considerable upset”, and offered an apology while affirming support for survivors.
Official Statements & Responses
- Manivannan’s election platform emphasizes solidarity, sanctuary, and innovation for the university community. They pledged to improve student housing, support unions, and combat “insecure staff contracts”.
- They reiterated a commitment to stand with victims and survivors.
Criticism & Opposition
- Scottish Rape Crisis Alliance labeled the MSP’s comments as an attempt to “minimise” sexual violence.
- A former student expressed concern that a rector who treats rape as a “theoretical spectrum” could send the opposite message to survivors, questioning whether gender-critical students would feel respected.
Data & Statistics
- Candidates: Six individuals are contesting the rectorial seat.
- Election dates: Voting occurs online on October 15 and October 16; results will be announced after the vote.
- Visa status: Manivannan’s graduate visa is valid until 2029, after which they plan to apply for a global-talent visa.
- Parliamentary role: Manivannan was elected to the Scottish Parliament on the Edinburgh and Lothians East list in May.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I will contribute to the University of St Andrews’ efforts to uncover its potential as a university of solidarity, sanctuary, excellence, and innovation,” — Manivannan
- “I have fought against Turnitin usage long before its most recent concerns – and will continue to,” — Manivannan
- “It’s my honour to represent our student population, to sit with the feelings of belongingness that we all deserve to feel, and to coordinate with Scotland’s wider higher education and cultural sector to bring new modes of support for our wee bubble.” — Manivannan
- “For our wee bubble, I’m running to be the University of St Andrews’ new Rector. Alongside the space I occupy as an MSP, I will bring a chance for our wee town to grow and thrive while rectifying the many injustices being permitted in our name (including to our current rector Stella Maris).” — Manivannan
What’s Next
Students will cast their votes during the two-day online ballot on October 15-16. The elected rector will assume duties immediately after the announcement, guiding the university Court and advocating for student interests for the next three years.