There is nothing under hand about the nomination of Branch Chair and these are a normal part of the democratic process being followed. Members are not consulted as they have already elected representatives (in this case the AC Committee) to vote for them at this level. The AC Committee, rightly or wrongly, have decided that they do not wish to back Billy Roger's nomination.
Billy stated that he would only accept nomination for Chair if he was given the backing of the AC committee to try to heal some of the rifts that exist between that group and the rest of the Branch.
The Branch will not be leaderless as Graham Clarkson is willing to continue in post for the moment.
If you have any views on this matter then instruct your elected reps to speak on this matter at Conference which is where the election of Branch Officers will be held.