A dispute has emerged ahead of an election hustings in Inverness, with candidates raising concerns over being excluded from panel participation.
The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers is set to be reported to the Electoral Commission following complaints about how the event has been organised.
The issue came to light after Allan Duffy contacted organisers to highlight that constituency candidates had not been included in the panel line up.
Initial engagement was described as constructive, however candidates were later told that all panel places had already been allocated and were instead invited to attend as audience members and submit questions.
That response has now sparked criticism, with candidates arguing that such an approach sidelines those standing for election and risks giving a misleading impression to the public.
There is particular concern given that one of the central topics expected to be discussed is the A9, a long running issue of safety, infrastructure, and delivery across the Highlands.
One candidate for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch has pointed to years of direct involvement in A9 campaigning, including work with bereaved families and affected communities, building what they describe as a detailed and evidence based understanding of the project.
They argue that excluding candidates with direct experience on such a key issue undermines both the credibility and balance of the event itself.
Allan Duffy has also been cited as bringing relevant experience through his background in hospitality and his role as a councillor with involvement in licensing matters.
The decision to exclude constituency candidates with lived and professional experience has raised broader questions around fairness, transparency, and the standards expected of public election events.
The matter is now expected to be formally referred to the Electoral Commission, as candidates seek clarity on whether appropriate procedures have been followed and whether all candidates are being treated equally.
At the heart of the dispute is a simple question of access, as those standing for election argue that participation in public debate is not optional, but a fundamental part of a functioning democratic process.
