John Cleese Urges St Andrews Students to Reject Green MSP for Rector Role

Former St Andrews University rector John Cleese has urged students to reject the candidacy of Green MSP Q Manivannan for the role of rector. Cleese accused Manivannan of attempting to "understate the appalling psychological effects of rape," referencing remarks the MSP made on a podcast last year suggesting rape was a "spectrum of things" and had been "demonised."

Cleese, a prominent alumnus and former rector, stated on social media, "As a former rector of St Andrews University I respectfully urge its students not to support someone who tries to understate the appalling psychological effects of rape."

Manivannan, who identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, is an MSP for Lothian East and is described as an "Indian-born" individual without permanent right to stay in the UK. He has also faced criticism for allegedly failing to hold constituency surgeries since his election, a point highlighted by Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser. Fraser stated that Manivannan "should ditch this campaign and get back to focusing on being an MSP, which should be seen as an honour, not something to be done half-heartedly."

Manivannan has defended his podcast comments, claiming the recording was "selectively edited" but offered an apology for the impact of his words. He is one of several candidates vying for the rector position, including actor Brian Baumgartner, Ministry of Defence analyst Dr. Arthur Bernhoff, and student doctor Dr. Edison Yau.

Manivannan stated his intention to use the rector role to "bring a chance for our wee town to grow and thrive while rectifying the many injustices being permitted in our name." The current rector, Stella Maris, is not running for re-election. She was previously removed from the university court over comments regarding the Israel-Gaza war, although she later won an appeal.

The Scottish Greens have been contacted for comment.