Story perspectives

Lib Dem Leader to Block Swinney, Citing No Independence Mandate

5/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Alex Cole-Hamilton, Liberal Democrat leader, announced he will vote against John Swinney for first minister, urging a shift from independence to everyday issues.
The Scottish National Party (SNP) remains the largest party but is seven seats short of a majority, needing party’s support to form a government.
Cole-Hamilton said the SNP lacks a mandate for a second independence referendum after the May 7 election and he will not attend any cross-party independence convention.

1 of 1

Story summary

Alex Cole-Hamilton, Liberal Democrat leader, announced he will vote against John Swinney for first minister, urging a shift from independence to everyday issues.
The Scottish National Party (SNP) remains the largest party but is seven seats short of a majority, needing party’s support to form a government.
Cole-Hamilton said the SNP lacks a mandate for a second independence referendum after the May 7 election and he will not attend any cross-party independence convention.