DUMFRIESSHIRE MSP Oliver Mundell has announced he will step away from politics next year and will not be standing in the 2026 Scottish Parliament election.
After two terms in office the Conservative says he is ready for a fresh challenge.
Breaking the news, Mr Mundell, 35, told DNG Media: “I am ready for change and to try something new, something away from frontline politics.
“After ten years it is time to pass the baton on to somebody new.
“I am confident I’m making the right decision for myself and my family and, ultimately, local people.”
Highlights over the last ten years have been representing local rural communities and giving them a voice at Holyrood; riding in a series of Common Ridings in 2017; the creation of South of Scotland Enterprise and the impact it has had in the region; and holding the SNP government to account.
Mr Mundell added: “Helping individual constituents with problems, that’s the thing that gives me the most satisfaction.
“It is not always possible to help but it is always possible to listen. You can sometimes make a life changing difference to people.
“It is a tremendous privilege to represent our communities in Holyrood.”
But he has found much of the machinations of the Scottish Parliament frustrating, adding: “My least favourite thing is sitting in Holyrood listening to the same rehearsed speeches and old grievances.”
And he is disappointed in what he classes as falling standards in education, as well as issues with the NHS and the police across Scotland.
“My biggest regret is that there has been very little progress on upgrading the A75 – this continues to cost lives and is holding our region back,” he added.
“I was in the public gallery on the first day of The Scottish Parliament and heard the passion Donald Dewar had and his vision for the parliament and sadly I don’t think it’s lived up to that.”
- See this week’s paper for full interview
