The unopposed election of the new St Andrews University rector has been compared to something from “Putin’s Russia”.
There was no backlash against St Andrews graduate and former student president Catherine Stihler MEP being the person selected as rector.
There was widespread concern, however, that it was an uncontested appointment with no election taking place.
As the outcry began, one student said: “I think Putin would approve of our idea of democracy 20 random people decide the fate of 8,000.”
Nominations for the rectorship opened on Monday and Ms Stihler was the only candidate when they closed on Wednesday.
The university confirmed that meant Ms Stihler becomes the 52nd rector.
This complied with the university’s rules for the election which state: “In the case of one candidate being validly nominated, no election shall take place and this candidate will be automatically appointed”.
Despite students raising their concerns, Ms Stihler told The Courier the real issue was why other nominees do not go forward with the process.
She said: “I was surprised to receive a phone call on Wednesday evening saying I was rector because I was the only nominee.
“It would have been great to compete with others. I love a good campaign.”
Students have demanded a change to the rule and Ms Stihler has vowed to help with any investigation into the matter.
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