In a dramatic political manoeuvre that has sent shockwaves through Scottish National Party circles, veteran MSP Colin Beattie has executed a stunning takeover of his local party branch. The former SNP treasurer orchestrated what critics are calling a "political coup" during a heated meeting of the Midlothian North and Musselburgh constituency association.
The Midnight Meeting That Changed Everything
The controversy unfolded during a late-night gathering where Beattie, who has represented the area at Holyrood since 2011, successfully installed his preferred candidate as branch convener. The move effectively sidelined the previous leadership and has ignited fierce debate about internal party democracy.
Cash for Votes Allegations Surface
Most explosively, allegations have emerged suggesting some newer members may have had their membership fees paid by third parties specifically to support Beattie's faction. One longstanding member revealed: "There are serious questions about whether membership fees were settled by others to guarantee votes for Beattie's preferred candidate."
The SNP's national membership system reportedly showed a significant influx of new members in the constituency shortly before the critical vote, raising eyebrows among party veterans.
A Pattern of Political Turbulence
This isn't the first time Beattie has found himself at the centre of political storms. The MSP previously resigned as SNP treasurer following the high-profile police investigation into the party's finances, though he was never charged with any offence and later returned to the role.
The current internal conflict comes at a particularly sensitive time for the SNP, which is grappling with multiple challenges including leadership transitions and polling difficulties.
Party Democracy Under Scrutiny
The events in Midlothian North and Musselburgh have sparked broader concerns about democratic processes within political parties. Critics argue that such internal coups undermine member confidence and create divisions that can hamper electoral effectiveness.
As one disillusioned member put it: "When long-serving activists feel their voices don't matter, it damages the very foundation of party democracy."
What Comes Next for the SNP?
The fallout from this local power struggle threatens to ripple through the wider SNP organisation. With the party facing crucial electoral tests in the coming years, internal unity has never been more important.
Political analysts suggest that how the SNP leadership handles this and similar internal disputes could significantly impact the party's prospects in both Scottish and UK-wide elections.
