Summary
The Alba Party, led by Kenny MacAskill, is unlikely to participate in the upcoming Scottish Parliament election due to financial difficulties. The party, founded by Alex Salmond in 2021, faces an internal crisis and issues with financial management that have cast doubt on its future viability.
Key Facts
- Alba Party leader Kenny MacAskill stated the party has financial problems, preventing it from contesting the upcoming Holyrood election.
- The party was launched by Alex Salmond in 2021, aiming to push for Scottish independence in the Parliament.
- The party failed to secure any seats in the 2021 election, only getting 1.7% of the regional vote.
- Kenny MacAskill became the leader in March 2025 following Salmond's death in October 2024.
- Police are investigating alleged financial irregularities in the party after a complaint was made last year.
- The party's former general secretary, Chris McEleny, was dismissed amidst allegations of misconduct, and he is seeking legal action for unfair dismissal.
- The party requires re-registration by the end of the next month, but this is unlikely due to financial constraints.
- Some members, including Alex Salmond's niece and former MP Angus McNeill, are still hopeful about standing candidates in the 2026 election.
