The upcoming leadership contest for the Alba party is set to be a pivotal moment in the party’s history, marking its first leadership election in five years. With Kenny MacAskill and Ash Regan vying for the top spot, the party is at a crossroads, navigating the challenges of moving forward without its founding leader, Alex Salmond. As the party looks to the future, it’s clear that the outcome of this election will have significant implications for the direction of Alba and its role in the Scottish independence movement.
MacAskill, who has served as the acting party leader since Salmond’s passing, brings a wealth of experience to the table, having spent seven years in Salmond’s cabinet as justice secretary. His time in Westminster was focused on energy policy, and he has been a key figure in the party’s campaign to keep the Grangemouth oil refinery open. On the other hand, Regan, who joined the party in 2023, has made a name for herself as a culture warrior, particularly with her stance on transgender law reforms. Her supporters argue that she has the potential to win over voters who might be tempted to vote for other parties, such as Reform UK.
Despite the party’s struggles in recent elections, including failing to gain any seats at the last Scottish Parliament elections, there is a sense of optimism among some insiders that Alba can make gains at the 2026 Holyrood elections. The party’s polling numbers have been promising, and some believe that by sticking to Salmond’s strategy of targeting SNP voters in the regional list ballot, Alba can finally make its mark. However, others are more skeptical, pointing to the party’s bitter divisions and the loss of Salmond’s star power.
One thing is clear: the Alba party is at a critical juncture, and the outcome of this leadership contest will determine the course of its future. As the party navigates these uncharted waters, it’s essential for its members to come together and find a way to move forward, putting aside their differences and focusing on the shared goal of advancing the cause of Scottish independence. With the right leadership and a unified approach, Alba can emerge stronger and more resilient, ready to play a significant role in shaping the future of Scotland.