An aide to Alex Salmond has been suspended as the Alba Party’s general secretary for alleged “gross misconduct”. Chris McEleny was first suspended from the party on January 2 for reportedly not following directives from the leadership and impeding office bearers from performing their duties. Following this, he faced another suspension on February 2 and is currently not serving as the party’s general secretary.
The alleged misconduct by McEleny included creating a misleading impression that the Alba Party supported the Conservative Party’s stance on denying asylum seekers free bus passes. Additionally, he received criticism for issuing a press release expressing support for Donald Trump if it would benefit Scotland’s economy. The national executive committee of Alba stated that McEleny’s actions had damaged the party’s reputation.
This development comes after McEleny attempted to have interim leader Kenny MacAskill suspended over allegations of bullying and harassment. An insider from Alba informed The Scotsman that McEleny’s suspension stemmed from defying direct instructions from party leadership and obstructing office holders in their duties. McEleny was also accused of trying to smear MacAskill to impede his chances of becoming the party leader.
Regarding the ongoing disciplinary process, an Alba spokesperson stated that the party does not comment on internal employment matters. McEleny had previously announced his intention to resign as general secretary once a new leader is elected. MacAskill and MSP Ash Regan are currently running to succeed the late Alex Salmond as the party’s leader.
In summary, Chris McEleny’s suspension as the Alba Party’s general secretary due to alleged gross misconduct has caused a stir within the party. His actions, which included defying leadership directives and damaging the party’s reputation, have led to ongoing internal disciplinary procedures. The outcome of this situation will likely have implications for the party’s future leadership and operational dynamics.