Scottish Lib Dem leader Willie Rennie is stepping down as party chief.
The North East Fife MSP, who has served for more than a decade as Lib Dem boss, steered his group through two referenda, three general elections, two Holyrood elections, two European elections and two local council votes.
Mr Rennie, 53, said it is time for a “fresh face” to lead the party.
It follows disappointing results in May’s Holyrood election, where the party returned only four MSPs, losing their regional list seat in the North East.
The outgoing boss will still represent the Lib Dems at Holyrood for North East Fife, he said, before offering his full support to his successor.
As a result of May’s election, the party lost representation on committees including health.
The party also do not automatically get to ask a question of the first minister during parliamentary question time, and lost their place on the parliamentary bureau that decides business at Holyrood for the week.
Politics a ‘vehicle for change’
Announcing his decision, Mr Rennie warned of the “twin nationalisms” of the SNP and Conservative governments that currently “polarise and divide Scotland”.
He said: “After 11 elections and referendums over 10 years, and a global pandemic, I have decided to stand aside as leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats.
“I have always believed politics can be a vehicle to tackle the big issues and transform the lives of people we are elected to serve.
“That’s why under my leadership we have championed the case of better mental health services, word-class schools and investment for early years education.
“Ours was the lone but important voice speaking out against the centralisation of Scotland’s police and a more liberal justice system.
“We moved the debate and delivered change so that many more people can now achieve their potential.
“Liberal Democrats stand for an open, united and outward-looking country.
“We are on the side of those who want a better future for themselves and families, but who also want the same for others, from the people living next door to those in countries around the world that often lack the advantages that we enjoy here.
“Standing up for Scotland’s place in the UK and in Europe is second nature to us.
“The divisive debates that have dominated our country over these issues have inflicted damage within families, communities and the economy.
“Scotland deserves a strong progressive alternative to the twin nationalisms represented by the SNP and Conservatives.
“They polarise and divide Scotland when we should unite to overcome the enormous challenges we face, from Covid-19 to climate change to the inequalities that continue to stain our society.
“Over the last decade there have been both gains and losses along the way, but I have enjoyed every effort. I love a good campaign.
“But it is time for a fresh face to lead our party forward. The new Leader will have my full support in writing the next bright chapter of the Scottish Liberal Democrats’ story.
“To the people of North East Fife, thank you for re-electing me in May. I will continue to work for you.
“To the members of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, it has been a privilege to lead you. I look forward to campaigning with you again soon – we have elections to win.”
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