The SNP-led opposition’s bid to seize control of Argyll and Bute Council from the administration has succeeded - by the cut of a deck of cards.
SNP councillor for Oban South and the Isles Jim Lynch is the new leader, replacing Lib Dem councillor for Kintyre and the Isles Robin Currie.
Independent Mid Argyll councillor Douglas Philand is the new provost, replacing Maurice Corry, Conservative councillor for Lomond North.
All other administration posts have been emptied and new policy leads will be appointed at the full council meeting on April 25.
The 15 councillors of the Argyll and Bute Strategic Opposition Partnership requisitioned a special meeting of the council on April 4, with an agenda of electing a new provost and leader, and making political management appointments.
Both votes for a new provost and leader came down to a tie 18 to 18 and had to be decided by lot - splitting a deck of cards.
Councillor Robin Currie drew a six of hearts but Councillor Lynch beat it with a king of spades. Councillor Corry cut a two of diamonds, beaten by Councillor Philand’s eight of clubs.
The Argyll, Lomond and Islands Group (TALIG) rule with 18 councillors: nine Conservatives, five Liberal Democrats and four independents.
The strategic Opposition Partnership had only 15 councillors: 12 SNP, two independents and one Labour councillors but their motions to elect a new leader and provost gained the support of the three unaligned councillors, Jennifer Kelly (Independent), Luna Martin (Green) and Tommy Macpherson (Independent Unionist).
More to come on this breaking story throughout the day.
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