The Alba party, the pro-independence political movement founded by the late Alex Salmond in 2021, has announced it will wind up and not field any candidates for the 2026 Scottish parliament election.
The decision, taken by the party's ruling national executive committee on Sunday, comes amid a sharp fall in membership and a financial crisis. Police Scotland has been investigating alleged “irregularities” in the party’s finances since May.
Kenny MacAskill, who succeeded Salmond as Alba leader, said the move was made “with considerable regret”. The Electoral Commission had advised the party that, given its financial situation, it should either voluntarily de-register or face statutory de-registration.
MacAskill stated: “Current liabilities far exceed both cash at hand and projected income.” He thanked members for their efforts and said: “The dream shall never die, parties as with individuals are mortal, but our cause is eternal.”
Chris McEleny, the party’s former general secretary and Salmond ally, acknowledged that many would be “furious” at the decision but urged caution in attacking MacAskill. He noted that Alba was the only pro-independence party that was pro-oil and gas and opposed to gender self-ID.
