Alba Party to Wind Up Amid Financial Crisis

The Alba Party, a pro-independence political organization in Scotland, has announced its decision to wind up and will not contest the 2026 Scottish Parliament election. This decision follows a significant decline in membership and ongoing financial difficulties. The party, founded in 2021 by the late Alex Salmond, has faced scrutiny from Police Scotland over alleged financial irregularities since May. Kenny MacAskill, who succeeded Salmond as the party leader, expressed regret over the ruling national executive committee's decision, stating that "current liabilities far exceed both cash at hand and projected income."

The GuardianDaily Record (Scotland)

The party's financial troubles have been severe enough that the Electoral Commission advised Alba to either voluntarily de-register or face statutory de-registration. During a meeting in Perth, party leaders acknowledged the "grave financial situation" and confirmed that they would proceed with the dissolution. MacAskill dismissed claims from a rival faction within the party that they could raise funds to alleviate the financial crisis, asserting that no contributions had been received from them despite their assertions.

Daily Record (Scotland)

The internal dynamics of the Alba Party have been tumultuous, with factions vying for leadership and direction. MacAskill criticized those claiming to have the party's best interests at heart, suggesting that their actions contributed to the party's decline. He noted, "Membership continues to haemorrhage and income plummet, in no small part due to the acrimony generated by those... seemingly more intent on pursuing their own political ambitions." The party's former general secretary, Chris McEleny, expressed disappointment over the decision to dissolve, indicating that many members would be "furious" with MacAskill's leadership.

The Guardian

Despite the dissolution, some party members, including Neale Hanvey, have defended the decision as the "only responsible" course of action given the financial circumstances. The Alba Party was seen as a unique entity within the Scottish political landscape, being the only pro-independence party that supported oil and gas industries and opposed certain gender identity policies. MacAskill reflected on the party's journey, stating, "The dream shall never die, parties as with individuals are mortal, but our cause is eternal."

The Guardian

While the decision to wind up the party has been confirmed, there are conflicting reports regarding the extent of the financial crisis and the potential for alternative leadership within the party. Some members believe that fundraising efforts could have been viable, while MacAskill maintains that no substantial support materialized.

The Guardian

• “Current liabilities far exceed both cash at hand and projected income.” — Kenny MacAskill, Alba Party Leader

Daily Record (Scotland)

• “In these circumstances the NEC has taken the only responsible decision open to it to deregister the party.” — Neale Hanvey, Alba Party Member

Daily Record (Scotland)

• “It is a tragedy that our journey begun in 2021 by our founder Alex Salmond should end this way but those culpable will be brought to justice.” — Kenny MacAskill, Alba Party Leader

Daily Record (Scotland)