SNP choose Emma Roddick MSP to replace Fergus Ewing as Inverness and Nairn Scottish Parliament constituency candidate
The SNP’s new Scottish parliament candidate for Inverness and Nairn is ready to “take the fight where it is needed” after being chosen as successor to Fergus Ewing.
With Mr Ewing opting to step down before the May 2026 Holyrood election, regional list member Emma Roddick has been selected to stand as constituency MSP.
An MSP since 2021, Ms Roddick served as minister for equalities, migration and refugees between 2023 and 2024, stepping down when John Swinney was appointed First Minister.
She previously served as a councillor, representing the Inverness Central ward of the Highland Council.
Ms Roddick said: “I am honoured and overwhelmed by the vote of confidence from the local membership.
“As a Merkinch resident who has worked for the people of this constituency now for many years, I am excited to take up the candidature and fight this election.
"As much as I love my job, I do not enjoy those moments where I have to go up against friends and colleagues.
“I am glad to move past this stage and take the fight where it is needed: winning this seat for the SNP.
"The SNP is the party of the Highlands, the party for Scotland, and the party that consistently delivers for Inverness and Nairn.
“I look forward to continuing to work with an SNP government to push forward necessary progress, from the A96 to the opening of Inverness Castle - just two of many local issues which get a shout-out in today's Programme for Government.
"Inverness and Nairn is a wonderfully diverse constituency, my home, and the centre of so much progress.
“I hope to use all of my considerable energy and experience to carry on the work of representing it in Holyrood."
SNP Inverness and Nairn Constituency Association convener Munro Ross thanked the other two candidates Sarah Fanet and Jeremie Fernández for their constructive contributions to the contest and wished them well for the future.
He added: “I have known Emma since she joined the party during the 2014 referendum campaign and have continued to be impressed by the way she takes on new challenges and usually succeeds.
“Her dedication first as a councillor and, since 2021, as a regional MSP will stand her in good stead as a constituency MSP.
“I can assure the voters of Inverness and Nairn she will be an excellent successor to Fergus Ewing. She will fight for all residents with the same dedication. "
