Alba Party to Choose New Leader as Alex Salmond Aide Resigns Post
In the aftermath of the sudden death of Alba Party’s founder, Alex Salmond, in October, the party is set to choose a new leader in the New Year. A significant development in this process is the announcement by a top aide to Salmond, Chris McEleny, that he will be resigning from his position as the Alba Party general secretary when a new leader is elected. McEleny stated that his decision to step down is to allow Salmond’s successor the freedom to lead the party in their own way, if they so choose.
Following Salmond’s passing, Kenny MacAskill has temporarily assumed the role of the party’s leader until new office bearers can be selected at a rearranged party conference scheduled for March. Should there be a need for an election to determine Salmond’s successor, a leadership contest could be held during the same month, with the winning candidate potentially being announced shortly after. Currently, Alba Party has one Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP), with former Scottish Government minister Ash Regan serving as the party’s Holyrood leader.
Despite his resignation as the general secretary, McEleny expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming 2026 Holyrood elections and his desire to be a part of leading the first-ever group of Alba MSPs into the Scottish Parliament. In a letter addressed to Alba Party members, McEleny fondly reflected on his relationship with Salmond, describing him as an exceptional boss and friend. He emphasized the honour he felt in being entrusted by Salmond to oversee the running of the party and expressed gratitude for their close working relationship.
McEleny concluded his letter by affirming his commitment to supporting the growth of the Alba Party and contributing to the formation of the inaugural group of Alba MSPs in the Scottish Parliament. The Alba Party looks ahead to a pivotal period of transition with the election of a new leader and the ongoing preparations for the upcoming elections.
In summary, Alba Party is undergoing a significant period of change with the forthcoming selection of a new leader following the untimely passing of its founder, Alex Salmond. The decision of Chris McEleny, a key aide to Salmond, to resign from his role as general secretary adds to the evolving landscape of the party’s leadership. As Alba prepares for the new chapter ahead, the focus remains on shaping the party’s direction and vision under fresh leadership in the lead-up to the 2026 Holyrood elections.