Here are statements from the three candidates, one of whom will be chosen by SNP members next month as Nicola Sturgeon's deputy party leader.
KEITH BROWN
Nicola Sturgeon needs a deputy leader who can shoulder some of her workload as she runs the Scottish Government and manages the party.
The deputy leader has to be her colleague and her supporter, always available, able to discuss issues or act on his own.
I've been a Minister in Nicola's department for two years and done exactly that; her door is always open and we've delivered improvements that have benefitted Scotland but we have to do more.
We must govern well and we need to continue to campaign for Scotland to have all the powers of a modern, independent nation. We have to work for a better future while we build a better present.
I have the experience, political and otherwise, that will allow me to fulfil this vital role.
ANGELA CONSTANCE
The SNP is now a party of mass membership.
I want to turn it into a party of mass participation.
The Yes campaign taught us a new kind of politics - one not controlled by party elites, but running free in the belief that a better Scotland is possible.
I shall keep that spirit alive and take it forward by ensuring that every SNP member has an equal say in our affairs; an equal incentive to be involved in what we do.
Our local branches are the source of our strength. In every Scottish community, our members must engage with and support all those who believe in our cause, and listen to what they say needs to be done.
Whenever it may come, as come it will, our cause remains an independent Scotland. I shall commit to that cause, head, heart and soul, every waking day.
STEWART HOSIE
On September 18 thousands of Yes activists knocked on the doors of independence supporters throughout Scotland as the culmination of the biggest political campaign Scotland has ever seen.
The 45 per cent Yes vote was delivered in spite of the entire might of the UK establishment being deployed against us.
No-one can deny the incredible enthusiasm and energy which the Yes campaign brought to Scotland, re-energising politics in every corner of our country.
I am determined to keep that campaigning energy alive to return the largest number of independence-supporting MPs to Westminster next year.
I am certain that my experience in helping to modernise the SNP and as a grassroots organiser can help us to win in 2015 and beyond.
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