The nominations are now open for the SDLP leadership.
Two candidates have already put their names forward, deputy leader Alasdair McDonnell and Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie.
There has been speculation Alban Maginness may put his name forward.
After all he is a seasoned campaigner, from the left of the party, who performed very well in the recent European election although falling short of winning a seat.
However, my sources tell me Mr Maginness has decided against putting his name forward.
There has been some pressure on him but he has decided against entering the contest.
Therefore it looks like a two horse race.
Some within the SDLP feel a three month election contest is too long and potentially damaging for the party. In the coming weeks there will be pressure on both the McDonnell and Ritchie camps to do a deal.
''There is a general election next year and we must make sure we don't end up looking at our navels and concentrate on the bigger picture,'' a senior insider said to me.
Both camps are working energetically.
Alasdair McDonnell has made it clear he will be concentrating on the party grassroots.
But Margaret Ritchie is also running a lobby across a wide cross-section of the party.
Some think McDonnell may be ahead but there will be a few twists and turns before the February SDLP conference in Newcastle.
''There will be no quick deal but let's see what happens before the conference,'' said my source.
Views: 5224
© UTV News