Tommy Sheridan resigned as SSP leader last year

MSP Colin Fox has already announced his candidacy following the resignation of national convener Tommy Sheridan.

Alan McCombes, SSP policy co-ordinator, said he had been asked to stand by a large number of grass-roots activists.

"Some people have talked about a coronation. As a republican socialist, I don't like coronations," he said.

"I think coronations belong to 18th century feudalism, not to a vibrant, diverse, democratic, socialist party in the 21st century which needs a contest.

"People need to be given a choice."

There are other things I would like to do with my life, but I felt responsibility to stand for this position Alan McCombs

Mr McCombes said that he did not think Mr Fox would be keen on a coronation either.

"I think he would recognise the advantages of having a contest, of debating and discussing ideas, of laying out where we see the party developing over the next few years."

He acknowledged that there were no "grand fault lines" between the two men, who had been friends and political allies for 20 years.

"We might have different styles," he said.

"I certainly think my style is very risk-taking, it is very prepared to be innovative."

Party conference

He added that he was not standing because of personal ambition.

"There are other things I would like to do with my life, but I felt responsibility to stand for this position.

"I think I have support within the party and the party wants choice."