A former Senior Lecturer at the University of Aberdeen has been announced as a Reform UK candidate for Aberdeen in the upcoming Holyrood election.
Professor Emeritus James Wyllie was announced as the candidate for Aberdeen Central on April 1st, the day of the deadline to register as a candidate.
After his 40th anniversary at the university, Head of Politics and International Relations, Dr Lynn Bennie, stated: “Jim is known for his independent and challenging views, not necessarily the most liberal and mainstream in an academic context.”
Originally standing as the candidate for the Angus South constituency, Wyllie has appeared to change his standing to his home town in a last minute decision.
This comes after Dr Jordan Brown stepped down as the Reform UK candidate for Aberdeen Central last week after a Holyrood hustings in the University of Aberdeen, when he told The Gaudie, “I’m not a candidate”.
James Wyllie retired in 2021 after 42 years at the university. Regarded as an expert in international security, Wyllie oversaw 25 successful PHD candidates during his tenure.
He was promoted to a Reader in 2002, denoting his internal reputation in the field of international security.
In a Facebook post celebrating his retirement, one commenter stated that they were “very fortunate to be taught by him,” with many reminiscing over their fond memories of his lectures.
In 2014, he posted on Twitter that the UK becoming more federalist was “essential”.
Jack Middleton, Scottish National Party (SNP) candidate for Aberdeen Central, commented: “Nigel Farage left it until the final hour to announce his candidates in Aberdeen Central in a clear attempt to dodge local scrutiny.
“Reform’s Holyrood campaign has been a shambles with candidates across Scotland dropping like flies.”
Jordan Brown was one of five Reform UK candidates to resign within the first week of their announcement.
Reform UK leader, Malcolm Offord, said that this was the “opposite of shambolic.”
With less than 5 weeks until the Scottish Parliament elections, James Wyllie will be hopeful to poach the seat from the SNP. Reform UK are currently polling second, with many predicting them to be the opposition to a SNP government.
The Gaudie encourages readers to register to vote by April 20th. Residents in Scotland, including international students, who will be 16 years old at the time of election can vote on May 7th.
James Wyllie has been approached for an interview.
