Is the pro-independence Alba Party on its last legs? The latest departure from its governing body suggests a deepening crisis. Gail Hendry, the sister of the late Alex Salmond, has stepped down from her role, fueling speculation that the party's days are numbered. But here's where it gets controversial: while Alba claims Hendry resigned for personal reasons, insiders whisper that the party is a shadow of its former self, now reduced to a 'pale imitation' under Kenny MacAskill's leadership. And this is the part most people miss: Hendry's exit follows that of Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh, another key figure, raising questions about the party's future direction and unity. Founded by Salmond in the wake of his high-profile fallout with Nicola Sturgeon, Alba was once seen as a bold alternative for Scottish independence. However, Salmond's sudden death in 2024 left a void that, critics argue, MacAskill has struggled to fill. Hendry, who joined Alba after leaving the SNP in 2021, was a prominent member of the governing NEC, making her departure particularly significant. An Alba spokesperson stated, 'Gail Hendry has resigned for personal reasons which we fully respect and support. Gail remains a member and we are grateful for her previous service to the Party.' Yet, a party source painted a bleaker picture: 'Anyone with sense will now conclude that it is all over for Alba.' Is this the end of Alba, or can it reinvent itself? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you think the party can recover, or is it destined to fade into political history? For the latest updates on this developing story and more, stay tuned to our coverage. Follow us on Twitter @Record_Politics, join our Facebook group, or catch our weekly podcast, Planet Holyrood, on Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube. Don't miss out on the conversation!
