Cleese Opposes Manivannan Rector Bid at St Andrews University

Former St Andrews University rector John Cleese has urged students not to elect Scottish Green MSP Q Manivannan as the university's next rector, after criticism of Manivannan's previous comments about rape and sexual violence. The election includes six candidates, with students voting on 15 and 16 October.

According to BBC reports, Manivannan discussed the "demonisation of rape" and said the crime existed on a "spectrum" during a podcast recorded last year. The remarks later drew criticism from the Scottish Rape Crisis Alliance, which accused the MSP of trying to "minimise" sexual violence.

Manivannan apologised for causing hurt but said the comments were selectively edited and misrepresented. They said: "I am horrified that my comments were selectively edited in order to mislead people and misrepresent me. But I also accept that my language was abstract in the first place and for that I take full responsibility and am sorry."

The MSP is seeking to replace current rector Stella Maris, who is not standing for re-election after a dispute with university leadership. Manivannan has promoted plans involving student housing, transport improvements, artistic spaces and staff conditions.

In a campaign message reported by BBC, Manivannan said: "Alongside the space I occupy as an MSP, I will bring a chance for our wee town to grow and thrive while rectifying the many injustices being permitted in our name (including to our current rector Stella Maris)."

Cleese, who previously served as St Andrews rector, criticised Manivannan's approach to discussing rape. He wrote: "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."

Actor Brian Baumgartner, known for playing Kevin Malone in the US version of The Office, is also among the candidates. He told students he "fell in love with the town's culture and history" and pledged to "continue the storied tradition of comics and performers serving as rector".

Baumgartner said he would "engage with students, and bring his humour and love for St Andrews to the role". Other candidates include Dr Arthur Bernhoff, Mark Brunner, Dr Conor Philip and Dr Edison Yau.

The rector role at St Andrews is elected by students every three years and includes serving as president of the University Court, which oversees major institutional decisions including budgets and academic policies.