SCOTTISH Labour have named James Kelly as their new general secretary.
The former MSP, who stepped down in May following 14 years at Holyrood, said he was “honoured” to be chosen.
The top party position had not had a permanent holder since Michael Sharpe resigned in December 2020.
Announcing the appointment of Kelly, Anas Sarwar said: “James is a fantastic campaigner and I’m delighted he is bringing his years of political experience to this vital role.
“As we build towards council elections next year, that background will be vital in helping out dedicated and tireless staff and candidates build winning campaigns across Scotland.”
Kelly added: “I am honoured to be appointed Scottish Labour’s new general secretary.
“We are building the alternative to years of failed government by the SNP, and I look forward to working with Anas, our party’s staff, our parliamentarians, councillors, members and affiliates to help build a stronger and fairer Scotland.”
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GMB official and former MSP Drew Smith had been acting general secretary since December. He will now take on “an expanded strategic and political role working closely with both the UK and Scottish leadership”.
Kelly, who represented both Rutherglen and Glasgow during his time in Parliament, has previously been the party’s economy and justice spokesman.
He resigned from Richard Leonard’s shadow cabinet in 2020, calling for the former leader to step down.
His appointment to general secretary is the latest move in a shake-up of the party hierarchy under Sarwar’s leadership.
Former Better Together director of operations, Kate Watson, was recently hired as his new chief of staff.
She had previously run unsuccessfully for the Glasgow East seat in the 2017 and 2019 general elections.
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