City of Edinburgh Council Leader Resigns Amid Police Probe into Alleged Inappropriate Behavior

The Labour leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, Cammy Day, has stepped down from his position following the initiation of a police investigation into an accusation of inappropriate conduct. His party, Labour, had previously suspended him while awaiting the results of the inquiry. The Sunday Mail reported that Mr. Day had “bombarded” Ukrainian refugees with messages, some of which included sexually explicit questions. He formally announced his decision to resign as council leader through a letter addressed to the chief executive. In a statement, he declared: “The recent commentary on my personal life is detracting from the important work this Labour-led council does for the people of Edinburgh.” “It undermines the dedicated efforts of my colleagues and council officers.” “That’s why it’s time for me to step aside as leader.” Mr. Day stated that law enforcement had not yet contacted him, but he affirmed his full cooperation with their investigation. He further added: “I am hugely proud of what we’ve achieved for the capital during my time as leader and truly believe that Edinburgh is a better, fairer city as a result.” “I’m also proud to have led a way of successfully doing politics across divides, finding a way to deliver on our priorities for our people and our city.” “I love Edinburgh and it has been an enormous privilege to have played a part in its success.” A refugee, who was among those contacted by Mr. Day, informed BBC Scotland News that the council leader had sent them messages via social media and added them to a dating platform. This Ukrainian individual, who arrived in Scotland after Russia’s invasion in 2022, alleged that Mr. Day posed sexually explicit questions and proposed a meeting for wine. The refugee expressed discomfort with the communication but stated feeling compelled to reply due to his position, and also feared his influence. Mr. Day, previously a community development worker, entered the political arena in his thirties, becoming a councillor in 2008. Since 2022, he has headed a minority Labour administration. Police Scotland confirmed it is investigating a complaint of inappropriate behavior lodged on October 22. The police force also verified that an earlier report concerning Mr. Day had been filed this year, though no criminal activity was identified. The City of Edinburgh Council stated that it handles complaints using “established processes,” in collaboration with an independent whistleblowing service and, when suitable, Police Scotland. Councillors from the SNP, Conservative, and Liberal Democrat parties had previously urged Mr. Day to resign as leader. Anas Sarwar, the leader of Scottish Labour, characterized the allegations as “deeply distressing.” He informed BBC Scotland’s Sunday Show that the party learned of the claims on Saturday, leading to Mr. Day’s immediate suspension. A spokesperson for Scottish Labour stated that the party treats all complaints with seriousness and investigates them in accordance with party policy. First Minister John Swinney labeled the allegations as “deeply concerning,” adding that any complaints should be investigated “fully and comprehensively.” SNP councillor Simita Kumar asserted that it was “unquestionable” that Mr. Day needed to resign. She posted on X: “This resignation should have come sooner, and in my view should have come with an apology.” The Ukrainian consulate in Edinburgh has also voiced concerns regarding the reports. It stated that it “looks forward to the results of the investigation and expresses hope for a fair resolution of this case.” Parties within the Edinburgh council have been invited to submit their nominations for the subsequent leader in advance of a full council meeting scheduled for next Thursday. Cammy Day’s resignation carries the potential to instigate a shift in Edinburgh’s administration, rather than merely appointing a new council leader. It is uncommon for a single party to hold an overall majority in Scottish councils. No regulation dictates that the largest single party must be part of the administration; agreements must be forged. In Edinburgh, the SNP constitutes the largest single party but currently holds an opposition role. Instead, Labour governs as a minority administration with backing from Liberal Democrat and Conservative councillors. Labour anticipates retaining control of the administration, though this outcome is not guaranteed.