Kenny MacAskill elected Alba leader following Salmond's death

Kenny MacAskill has been elected as the new leader of the pro-independence Alba Party, succeeding the late Alex Salmond, who died last October. MacAskill narrowly defeated Ash Regan in a party ballot, receiving 52.3% of the votes compared to Regan's 47.7%. Neale Hanvey was elected deputy leader with a significant 78% of the vote, defeating Chris McEleny. The leadership contest has been marked by infighting and public attacks between candidates, each claiming Salmond's support. With only one MSP and no MPs, MacAskill's immediate focus will be preparing for the vital Holyrood election in May 2026. The Alba Party, established by Salmond, has struggled to establish itself in Scotland's political landscape since its inception ahead of the 2021 election.