Members of the ALBA Continuation Group have said they are willing to offer an unconditional indemnity to current party leader Kenny MacAskill in an effort to secure what they describe as an orderly transition in the party’s leadership.
The group, made up of Angus Brendan MacNeil, Tommy Sheridan, Christina Hendry and Suzanne Blackley, set out its position as Scotland’s political parties prepare for the next Scottish Parliament election.
The proposal is intended to resolve an ongoing internal dispute within the pro independence party while allowing it to focus on the upcoming electoral campaign.
Members of the group say the indemnity would allow the current leadership to step aside without personal financial risk connected to party matters.
They say the proposal has been made in good faith and is intended to provide stability while the party prepares for the next stage of its political activity.
Angus Brendan MacNeil said the offer was designed to create space for the party to move forward without prolonged conflict.
“The proposed indemnity is designed to provide reassurance and a respectful off ramp for the current leadership allowing all sides to move forward constructively and without unnecessary conflict.
“It creates the space for ALBA to reset, refocus and direct its full energies toward the election campaign and the wider cause of independence.”
The Continuation Group has also set out its strategy for the Scottish Parliament election campaign.
Members believe the party could win seats through the regional list system by attracting independence supporters who might otherwise cast list votes that do not translate into representation.
MacNeil said the group sees an opportunity for ALBA to secure seats while not affecting the SNP’s position under the current electoral dynamics.
“Central to the group’s vision is a strong disciplined campaign for MSP list seats.
“The Continuation Group believes there is a clear opportunity for ALBA to secure representation by attracting list votes that would otherwise be wasted.
“In doing so ALBA can win seats primarily at the expense of Reform while causing no loss to the SNP which is not expected to gain list seats under the current electoral dynamics.”
As part of the proposed transition the group has requested a full account of the party’s outstanding debts and financial liabilities.
Members say that information would allow them to prioritise repayments and begin a targeted fundraising effort.
MacNeil said early discussions with supporters had already indicated potential financial backing to help address the situation.
“To enable this transition to proceed smoothly the group has requested a clear account of the party’s outstanding debts and liabilities.
“This will allow for responsible prioritisation and the launch of a targeted fundraising effort.
“Encouraging commitments of significant financial support have already been received giving confidence that these obligations can be addressed swiftly and effectively.
“We believe that the current problems are surmountable.”
The group also says it intends to place party members at the centre of decision making during the next stage of the party’s development.
MacNeil said members would be consulted directly on campaign strategy and interim leadership arrangements if the transition proceeds.
“Looking ahead the Continuation Group has emphasised its intention to place members at the heart of the party’s next phase.
“Upon assuming leadership it would move quickly to engage the membership directly seeking endorsement for the campaign strategy and interim leadership arrangements so that ALBA advances with a clear and democratic mandate.”
