As we get closer to the 2026 Holyrood election, eyes turn to who will not be standing for re-election.
So far the biggest name to rule themselves out of contention is former first minister Humza Yousaf.
But speculation remains about some other high-profile names in the Scottish Parliament, including former first minister Nicola Sturgeon.
We take a look at all the MSPs who have confirmed they will be standing down at the 2026 election.

25. Evelyn Tweed - SNP
Evelyn Tweed has been the MSP for Stirling since 2021, but says she will stand down to “embrace new opportunities”. She said it had been “an immense privilege” to serve as a Stirling councillor and then as the MSP for the city, and added: “I passionately believe that Scotland will be an independent country.” | National World Photo: nil

26. Beatrice Wishart - Liberal Democrat
Beatrice Wishart has been the Lib Dem MSP for Shetland since a by-election in 2019. She said: “After careful consideration, I think May 2026 is an appropriate time for me to step aside and let someone else carry the liberal torch for Shetland. “It has been an honour and a privilege to represent the people of Shetland and I shall always be grateful that I had the opportunity to do so.” She added she is proud to be the first female to represent Shetland in Holyrood, and of her work as convener of the cross-party group on brain tumours. Photo: JPI

27. Liz Smith - Conservative
Liz Smith has been the Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife since 2007. She said: “I feel that after two decades as an MSP, it is time for new blood and also because I have the opportunity to move on to other pursuits in public life. “It has been the greatest privilege to serve the Scottish Parliament and the electorate of Mid Scotland and Fife for two decades and to enjoy the support of many parliamentary colleagues across the political spectrum.” Photo: PA

28. Edward Mountain - Conservative
Sir Edward Mountain says it has been a “true honour” to represent the Highlands and Islands since 2016. In his resignation letter, he said: “Sadly in this parliament I have found that all too often, many good ideas are discounted and shelved by those more interested in promoting the political differences and arguments for independence. “The result is that I constantly see good ideas, that could and would benefit Scotland, being thwarted. “This is not only self-serving, but also holding Scotland back. “The worst of it is that it does little to help the many people that look to the parliament to make real changes that would make their lives better.” Photo: Andrew Cowan

