SDLP deputy leader Alasdair McDonnell has formally announced he is to contest the party leadership.
Current leader Mark Durkan has stated his intention to stand down as leader after eight years at next February’s annual conference.
South Belfast MP Dr McDonnell (60) and South Down Assembly member and social development minister Margaret Ritchie are expected to be the sole candidates for the position.
Nominations will be formally invited next week and will close on November 14th.
Ms Ritchie, the party’s sole member of the Stormont Executive, announced two weeks ago against expectations that she would stand. She claimed she would offer the party membership “a comprehensive plan for renewal of the party and an exciting vision”.
Ms Ritchie has emerged with an enhanced reputation within the party since taking her position in the Executive.