Alba Party's Financial Woes Cast Doubt on Election Participation
Leader Kenny MacAskill has informed members that the Alba Party is unlikely to contest the forthcoming Scottish Parliament elections due to its "perilous financial state." The pro-independence party, founded by Alex Salmond in 2021, may be unable to re-register with the Electoral Commission, jeopardising its ability to field candidates when voters go to the polls in May.
Mr MacAskill acknowledged that this announcement would come as a "bitter blow" to supporters, citing "financial irregularities" that emerged following the dismissal of the former general secretary. While he questioned the overall viability of Alba, other party figures have insisted it can continue operating.
Police Investigation and Internal Struggles
In an email to members, Mr MacAskill outlined numerous difficulties facing the party, noting that he expects matters regarding a police investigation into the finances to "progress further shortly." Police Scotland received a complaint about irregularities in the party's finances in May last year, adding to the mounting pressures.
The departure of the party's sole MSP, Ash Regan, in October 2025 after a contentious leadership election earlier that year has further compounded challenges. Mr MacAskill emphasised the integrity of current staff and elected office bearers but stressed that this does not address the acute financial predicament.
Resource Shortages and Electoral Hurdles
Despite efforts by director of operations Corri Wilson to stabilise and turn around the situation, the financial position remains dire. The party is no longer able to meet requirements to file accounts with the Electoral Commission, meaning that "fighting an election is simply beyond our resources."
Mr MacAskill's letter stated: "I have to advise that it looks likely that we will not be able to register and therefore even to contest the election. That brings also into question the viability of a party which neither has financial resource nor the ability to contest elections."
Internal Divisions and Future Prospects
In a subsequent media statement, Mr MacAskill clarified that no final decisions have been made, with the matter resting with the party's governing National Executive Committee (NEC). He said: "The NEC and candidates have been informed that all options remain under consideration while the party continues to engage with the Electoral Commission."
However, internal dissent has surfaced. Chirstina Hendry, Alex Salmond's niece, expressed frustration with the leadership's statement, vowing to work to ensure the party's continuation. She argued that the decision to deregister should involve the entire membership, not just a "handful of members in the leadership team."
Former MP Angus B MacNeil, selected as Alba's lead candidate for the Highlands regional list, remains optimistic. He posted on social media: "Despite temporary blips, Alba candidates will be standing at the Holyrood Elections in May. Independence matters."
The unfolding situation highlights the profound challenges facing smaller political parties in maintaining electoral viability amid financial and organisational crises.
