Q Manivannan

• 11 May 2026

On 10th May 2026, Q Manivannan was elected as a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP).

• Representing the Scottish Greens, Manivannan won the Edinburgh and Lothians East regional list seat in the Scottish Parliament elections.
• Born in Tamil Nadu, Manivannan identifies as non-binary and campaigned on a platform promoting “kinder politics” rooted in care, compassion and inclusion.
• The election was made possible by changes in Scottish electoral rules allowing foreign nationals on valid visas, even without indefinite leave to remain, to contest elections.
• Manivannan highlighted experience as a community organiser, teacher and policy expert working with the United Nations, trade unions and human rights groups.
• The campaign focused on issues such as disability inclusion, accessible cities, immigrant rights and solidarity with marginalised communities.
• Manivannan also pledged support for immigrants, asylum-seekers and oppressed communities, including Palestinians.
• The Scottish Greens stated that the victory reflected Scotland’s inclusive electoral framework for residents with the legal right to live and work in the country.