Scottish Green Party MSP Q Manivannan has apologised for comments about rape made on a podcast before their election to the Scottish Parliament. The apology follows criticism from survivors' groups and political opponents.
Comments on Podcast Spark Controversy
The comments were made during an episode of The Subjective Space podcast, recorded last year. They re-emerged online over the weekend, prompting widespread backlash.
In the interview, Manivannan discussed the rehabilitation of criminals with host Sindhu Rajasekaran. Rajasekaran said she could have no empathy for rapists, and Manivannan responded by saying there is a "myth of the monster rapist" and a "demonisation of rape in the sense of it is a spectrum".
Manivannan continued: "It is a spectrum, none of which is any less or worse, but it is a spectrum of things that constitute one homogenised word 'rape'." They also argued that "any individual is capable of rape, including yourself and me".
The MSP, who identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, was elected in May's election. They are based in Edinburgh and previously worked as a writer and academic.
Survivors' Groups Respond
The Scottish Rape Crisis Alliance (SRCA), which represents four rape crisis centres in Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and the Western Isles, issued an open letter in response. The alliance said there is "no hierarchy of rape" and warned the MSP not to minimise sexual violence.
In the letter, the SRCA stated: "We are not demonising rape. We are naming it." The group emphasised that the impacts of rape can last a lifetime and that the crime should never be reduced to a theoretical debate.
The alliance strongly opposed the idea of rape being described as a spectrum, saying such language could downplay the seriousness and lasting trauma of the crime. Survivors' groups have widely criticised the comments, saying they undermine the experiences of victims.
Manivannan's Apology
In a statement, Manivannan said clips from the podcast had been "selectively edited" but expressed regret for the upset caused. They said they were "sorry" for the hurt and insisted they would never seek to diminish a rape survivor's experience.
The MSP acknowledged the criticism and said they understood why the comments had caused concern. They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting survivors of sexual violence.
Political opponents have also criticised the remarks, with some calling for further explanation or action. The Scottish Green Party has not announced any formal disciplinary measures.
Context and Reactions
The controversy comes as Scotland continues to debate issues around sexual violence and justice reform. The SRCA and other groups have been vocal in calling for better support for survivors and clearer public discourse on rape.
Manivannan's election as a Green MSP was seen as part of a broader shift in Scottish politics, with the party gaining seats in May's election. The incident highlights the scrutiny faced by new politicians over past statements.
The podcast was recorded before Manivannan took office, but the re-emergence of the clips has drawn attention to the MSP's views. The apology is likely to be followed by further discussions within the party and with advocacy groups.