AS the dust starts to settle post-election, reflections and analyses are flooding in. But while the general picture might seem bleak for us in the SNP, a deeper look reveals a more nuanced reality.
Despite the relentless battering we’ve endured in the press over the past few years, our vote share held up better than expected.
Many saw Labour as the best chance to oust the Tories, a sentiment that undoubtedly influenced the outcome.
In the north-east, the story is slightly different. The Aberdeenshire North and Moray East seat, which overlaps with my Scottish Parliament constituency of Banffshire and Buchan Coast, saw a dramatic twist. David Duguid, the incumbent MP, was unceremoniously ousted from candidacy by Douglas Ross, who cited Duguid’s illness as the reason.
However, Duguid made it clear on social media that he was recovering and ready to serve. This ruthless manoeuvre by Ross sparked outrage across the political spectrum, revealing a new low in political desperation – one which looks like it cost the Tories. For me, one of the most shocking revelations of the night on July 4 was that the Tory vote held up in the north-east. Despite the numerous scandals and crises – from Covid parties to soaring mortgage rates – some people still chose to vote Conservative.
This is baffling, especially when so many of my MSP caseload issues stem from Conservative-run Aberdeenshire Council’s decisions and budget cuts. The SNP offered an alternative budget without those cuts, proving that these are political choices, not fiscal necessities.
Understanding this phenomenon is crucial. Our message needs to cut through the confusion and disinformation.
People are suffering due to decisions made by Conservative-run local authorities, yet the blame is often unfairly placed on the SNP Scottish Government, which has been mitigating the worst of Westminster’s cuts. The frustration and disillusionment I encountered during canvassing were palpable. Many long-time voters told me they were so fed up they weren’t planning to vote at all. This disengagement is exactly what Unionists want.
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But, when discussing a potential independence referendum with constituents, I found hope. Despite their frustrations, many said they would vote Yes if given the chance tomorrow. This shows that the desire for independence is still strong, even if current disillusionment masks it. We must reignite that vision and remind people of the stakes.
It’s a harsh reality – and one we need to express more loudly – that no matter who holds power in Westminster, Scotland’s interests take a back seat. This is why the call for Scottish independence grows louder and more urgent.
We need full autonomy to manage our resources and shape the country’s future. Independence isn’t just a political slogan, it’s a pathway to ensure that the benefits of our rich resources are felt by all Scots, not siphoned off elsewhere.
I have deep concerns about what Labour have in store for our energy sector. The proposals put forward by the new administration appear to prioritise the broader UK agenda over Scotland’s specific needs.
The ambiguity surrounding the ban on new oil and gas licences is a stark reminder that our energy policies are still being dictated by Westminster, not Holyrood. This lack of clarity and direction is not only unsettling but also threatens the stability of our energy sector and the livelihoods of countless Scots.
The fear is that under Labour’s rule, Scotland will continue to be used as an energy resource, while the tangible benefits of our natural wealth bypass our communities.
Just as with the oil and gas sector, where we’ve been treated as a cash cow, the same pattern seems to be emerging with our renewable resources.
This exploitation must end. Scotland deserves better. We deserve to see the fruits of our labour and resources reinvested back into our communities, fostering growth and prosperity for all.
As the MSP for Banffshire and Buchan Coast, I’ve seen the renewable energy powerhouse that our north-east corner has become. The renewables sector here is booming, with major developments proving our potential.
Despite this progress, the story remains the same. Scotland’s resources are harnessed, yet the profits flow south, leaving our communities with disruption but little reward. The recent meetings with energy leaders and stakeholders have underscored the need for Scotland to take control of its energy policy.
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The proposal for regional pricing, as suggested by Octopus Energy chief executive Greg Jackson, highlights the potential for Scotland to have the cheapest electricity in Europe. Our wealth of renewable energy infrastructure positions us to lead in the transition to a low-carbon economy, attracting investment and creating jobs.
Imagine having the cheapest electricity in Europe, leveraging our wealth of renewable resources. Yet, under the current system, we continue to play second fiddle, our potential untapped and our communities unrewarded.
Scotland’s story shouldn’t be one of missed opportunities and exploitation. The narrative must change from one of being a cash cow for the UK to a tale of empowerment and self-determination.
From our staunch stance on independence, which threatens the status quo, to the fear of a united and self-sufficient Scotland that no longer relies on Westminster, our drive for autonomy is seen as a direct challenge to the established order.
The SNP have endured incredible amounts of scrutiny and criticism, more than any other political entity in the UK, and it often feels like we are swimming against a relentless tide.
Yet this has only strengthened our resolve. We will win in 2026, and I am confident we will triumph in an independence referendum. Our commitment to Scotland’s future remains unshaken.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all those MPs who fought valiantly but didn’t get re-elected.
It’s a time for reflection, yes, but not for dwelling on the past. We must dust ourselves off and get back into the fray.
The road ahead is challenging, but with our unwavering commitment and the support of the Scottish people, we will achieve our goal of independence and a brighter future for Scotland.
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