The Alba party has announced it will wind up and not field any candidates for the 2026 Scottish parliament election. The pro-independence party was formed in 2021 by the late Alex Salmond but has suffered a sharp fall in membership and a financial crisis.
Police Scotland has been investigating alleged irregularities in the party's finances since May. The Electoral Commission advised the party that, given its financial situation, it should either voluntarily de-register or face statutory de-registration.
Kenny MacAskill, who succeeded Salmond as Alba leader, said the decision by the party's national executive committee was made with considerable regret. He stated: 'Current liabilities far exceed both cash at hand and projected income.'
MacAskill thanked the membership and said: 'The dream shall never die, parties as with individuals are mortal, but our cause is eternal.'
Chris McEleny, former general secretary of Alba, urged caution in public attacks on MacAskill, noting that Alba could have provided a pro-independence, pro-oil and gas alternative in the Scottish parliament, opposed to gender self-ID ideology.
