Rob Callister has pulled out of the race to become the Isle of Man’s next Chief Minister after admitting he does not have enough support among fellow MHKs to secure the nomination.

The Onchan MHK, who was elected for a third term at last month's General Election, had been the only politician to publicly indicate he would put himself forward for the top job.

A third name, from among the new MHKs elected for the first time, is widely being touted but they have yet to announce this publicly.

In a statement this morning, Mr Callister said he had decided not to enter the contest after assessing the level of support he could command within the new House of Keys.

He said: ‘While my proposals were warmly received by many businesses, charities and constituents, it has become clear that I do not have sufficient support within the new House of Keys to secure a nomination.

‘As a result, I will not be putting my name forward for the position of Chief Minister.’

The decision comes as nominations for the role close at noon today (Tuesday, October 6), leaving the contest wide open and the identity of the next Chief Minister still uncertain.

Mr Callister had circulated a 16-page manifesto to MHKs last week, setting out his plans for a new administration, but had made clear that he wanted assurances from colleagues that he had sufficient backing before formally entering the race.

As recently as yesterday, he was understood to still be gauging which MHKs would support his candidacy.

Mr Callister said he was ‘naturally’ disappointed by the decision but respected the democratic process.

He said standing for Chief Minister had never simply been about seeking a title, but about offering ‘a clear vision, practical solutions and an ambitious but achievable programme’ for the island.

His withdrawal means the question of who will seek the top political job is now even less certain.

We take a look at five possible candidates for the island's next Chief Minister, and what they said when asked about taking the island's top job
After the General Election, we took a look at five possible candidates for the island's next Chief Minister, and what they said when asked about taking the island's top job. But could it be someone else? (Media Isle of Man)

It is understood two or three candidates could potentially enter the contest, although some prospective nominees may still be undecided ahead of today's deadline.

Candidates must submit a policy statement, along with the names of a proposer and seconder, to Speaker of the House of Keys David Ashford by midday.

MHKs are expected to be informed of the nominations within two hours, with the details then made public this afternoon.

The House of Keys is due to meet at 10am next Tuesday, October 13, to nominate the next Chief Minister. Each candidate will be able to make an opening speech and answer questions from MHKs before a ballot if more than one person is nominated.

A candidate needs the support of at least 13 of the 24 MHKs to secure the nomination.

Among the names that could potentially feature in the contest, along with Mr Thomas, are experienced Members including former Chief Minister Alfred Cannan while newly elected MHKs could also put themselves forward.

Mr Thomas previously said he would take on the role ‘if called upon’.

Follow Isle of Man Today throughout the day for the latest developments as the next Manx administration takes shape.