Scottish Labour’s top spinner steps down

After Scottish General Secretary Colin Smyth stepped down a few weeks ago – and following media speculation about his future – Scottish Labour’s top spinner Rami Okasha has stepped down. The Scottish Labour Party have just released the following statement:

Rami Okasha, Scottish Labour’s Head of Strategy, Communication and Policy, has confirmed that he is stepping down from his role this week.

After four and a half years working for the Scottish Labour Party, during which he has led the party’s communications in seven major election campaigns, Mr Okasha said he was looking forward to taking on new challenges.

He said: “Being at the heart of a political party is a real privilege and I have worked alongside tremendously talented people. I have been part of team running the last European, General and Scottish elections, winning three parliamentary by-elections, and this year’s local authority campaign, so now is a good time to move on to new challenges. I strongly support Johann in her efforts to build a new Scottish Labour Party and look forward to playing any role I am asked.”

Johann Lamont, Scottish Labour Leader, said: “I would like to thank Rami for his dedication and service to the Scottish Labour party. He is a man of considerable merit and no one could ever say he didn’t put in the hours. He leaves with my best wishes and I hope he enjoys the success he deserves in his future career.”

Iain McNicol, Labour’s General Secretary, said: “Rami Okasha has been and remains a dedicated servant of the Labour Party, as a member, activist and superb employee. I wish him all the best for the future. He leaves his post with many friends in the party.”