Sarah Boyack MSP said she will step down at next year’s Scottish parliamentary election.
Lothians MSP Sarah Boyack who was first elected to The Scottish Parliament in 1999 has announced she will step down at the next election.
Ms Boyack has campaigned on many issues, from bus passes to trying to rid the city of “party flats”. In recent weeks she managed to persuade the First Minister to give her an assurance that the Scottish Government will look at the relatively small amount of cash needed to ensure that Filmhouse will be able to complete all four cinemas before opening at the end of the month.
Sarah said: “t has been the honour of my life to serve my community in the Scottish Parliament, but I’ve decided not to stand in next year’s election.
“I am proud of what I achieved both in government & as a local MSP, from introducing free bus passes for the over 60s andnational parks, to pushing the successful campaign to secure a new eye hospital for Edinburgh.
“I am excited to campaign for Scottish Labour in the 2026 election and I will continue to support action to tackle our housing & climate emergencies after my time in Holyrood is done.
“It’s been a privilege to serve the people of Lothian.”
Labour MSP, Foysol Choudhury, said: “Sarah has been an outstanding representative for Edinburgh and the Lothians over the past 25 years. A thoughtful and determined voice in Scottish politics, she has led vital portfolios including Culture, Transport, and Net Zero, always standing up for local communities and causes with conviction. Her dedication and leadership have left a lasting impact across the country.
“Since my own election, Sarah has been a tremendous support to me always ready with guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear. In many ways, she supported me like a big sister, and I will always be grateful for the kindness and wisdom she so generously shared. She has long been a respected and influential figure in our Parliament, and her presence will be deeply missed.”
Gregor Poynton, Labour MP for Livingston, said: “Sarah Boyack has been a tireless and passionate champion for Edinburgh, the Lothians, and for Scotland throughout her remarkable career.
“From her ground-breaking work as a Scottish Minister to her dedicated work with communities across the region, including West Lothian and the Almond Valley constituency, Sarah has always put people first.
“Her decision to stand down will not have been easy, but she can look back with real pride on a record of delivering for the Lothians in government and opposition alike. Sarah will be greatly missed at Holyrood and in our party, but I know she will continue to make an invaluable contribution to our movement and our country in the years ahead.
“I wish Sarah all the very best for the future and thank her for everything she has done for our region and for Scottish Labour.”
We have loads of photos of Sarah in our library – here is just a selection.
