Aberdeen Labour appoint third leader in six months
M. Tauqeer Malik takes over from Barney Crockett
There's more change at the top of Aberdeen's political spectrum as the city's second largest council group elected their third leader since December.
M. Tauqeer Malik takes over from former Lord Provost Barney Crockett, who himself was only elected as the group's leader in December to take over from Sandra MacDonald.
Who is Councillor Malik?
First elected in 2012, Councillor Malik is one of the longest serving councillors in Aberdeen, representing the Lower Deeside ward.
"I follow in the steps of some real political heavyweights", he said following his victory at the party's AGM.
Continuing, Cllr Malik said: "It is a huge privilege to be elected the group leader of Aberdeen Labour.
"It will be my intention to carry on with the good work adopted by Councillor Crockett and his team. I intend to refresh my team with new responsibilities over the summer recess.
"Aberdeen Labour currently has some exceptional talent and with Councillor Kate Blake’s assistance I intend to unleash that talent on our political opponents for the betterment of the City of Aberdeen."
Cllr Crocket: Always my intention to quit
Cllr Crockett's stint as leader came as a surprise in December but it proved to be a short one.
It wasn't without its talking points though, notably referencing the Nazi Party twice during the budget meeting in March as well as quoting Adolf Hitler.
Upon giving up his role, he said “It was always my intention to stay as leader for a short period of time until a suitable replacement came forward.
"I am delighted that Councillor Malik is taking on the leadership as he is not only one of my closest friends, but he is the one who shares my ideology of what Aberdeen Labour requires to do to take back control of Aberdeen City Council and our Devolved and National Parliaments.
"I offer my support to Councillor Malik and I have already advised him that I am here to help if required.
Councillor Crockett added: "I told my colleagues from the outset that I would wish to make more of my commitment to the Salvation Army when the opportunity arose and to devote myself to promoting Aberdeen's case nationally and internationally wherever I possibly can.
"The need is greater than ever".