The pro-independence party, which was launched by former SNP leader Alex Salmond in 2021, announced the decision on Sunday
The Alba Party has declared it will dissolve and not put forward candidates in this year’s Holyrood election due to its ongoing financial woes. The pro-independence party, founded by Alex Salmond in 2021, confirmed the decision on Sunday.
This follows a meeting between the party’s leadership and the Electoral Commission, where they were advised that, given their financial situation, the party should either voluntarily de-register or face compulsory de-registration.
Last month, members of the so-called Alba Continuation Group urged leader Kenny MacAskill to step down if he was unwilling to lead the party into Scottish Parliament elections.
Following a national executive committee (NEC) meeting on Sunday, Mr MacAskill admitted the party was in a “dire financial plight”.
“Current liabilities far exceed both cash at hand and projected income,” he stated.
He went on to say: “I wish to place on record my grateful thanks to the membership for their efforts for our party and for our cause. It has been a privilege to work with them. We can be proud of what we sought to achieve and also the support which we gave to our founder in his time of need.
“The dream shall never die, parties as with individuals are mortal, but our cause is eternal.”
Chris McEleny, Alex Salmond’s former general secretary, said many would be incensed by the decision to wind up the party.
“Alba could have provided a much-needed alternative in the Scottish Parliament in that it was the only pro-independence party that was pro oil and gas,” Mr McEleny stated.
“It is deeply regrettable that the efforts of the Alba members to save the party were unsuccessful and my thoughts are with all in the independence movement who will be feeling bitterly let down.”
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