SNP's Independence Strategy Faces Internal Backlash Amid Draft Bill Release

London, United Kingdom Aug 29, 2026 ALN: In just over 24 hours, the SNP has faced backlash from its own members for blocking debate on the party’s independence strategy and subsequently publishing a draft referendum bill.

The Scottish National Party (SNP) has long been a proponent of Scottish independence, advocating for a break from the United Kingdom and the establishment of Scotland as a sovereign nation. This aspiration has been a cornerstone of the party's identity since its inception in 1934. However, the dynamics surrounding this goal have evolved significantly, particularly in light of recent political developments.

The approach to securing Scotland’s exit from the Union by John Swinney’s party following the Holyrood election has elicited mixed responses from both party members and the public. The SNP, which has been in power in Scotland since 2007, has faced increasing scrutiny regarding its effectiveness in advancing the independence agenda, especially after the Supreme Court's ruling in 2022 that determined the Scottish Parliament does not possess the authority to legislate for a referendum on independence.

Before the election, the First Minister aimed to leverage the political precedent set by Alex Salmond’s 2011 majority to secure a mandate for a second independence referendum. Salmond's administration had successfully held a referendum in 2014, which ultimately resulted in a majority vote against independence. However, the SNP did not achieve a majority of Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) in the most recent election cycle. Despite this, with the addition of the Scottish Greens, there is now a record pro-independence majority in Holyrood, raising expectations for a renewed push for independence.

Here's why the SNP must allow members to debate the party's independence strategy.

With the legal route closed—following the Supreme Court's ruling in 2022 that Holyrood lacks the powers to legislate for an independence referendum—the publication of the draft bill has drawn ire from many members. The absence of any resolutions on independence strategy in the draft conference agenda has further fueled frustration among those who had hoped for an open debate. Many within the party feel that a lack of discussion undermines the democratic principles upon which the SNP was founded.

Conversely, some have defended the leadership’s approach, arguing that the focus should be on persuading voters to support independence rather than engaging in circular discussions. This perspective suggests that the party should prioritize outreach and education on the benefits of independence, rather than internal debates that may not yield actionable results.

Robin McAlpine, founder of Common Weal, criticized the SNP’s current strategy as “genuinely pitiful.” He remarked, “The last decade has been a pantomime, the performance of doing something without taking a single credible step towards independence.” His comments reflect a growing sentiment among party members who feel that the SNP's leadership has failed to capitalize on the momentum for independence that has been building since the 2014 referendum.

McAlpine asserted that the party is patronizing its members, whose voices have been silenced by the de-democratisation of the party. He expressed concern that the SNP is becoming a vehicle for independence in the same way that Scottish Labour is for socialism. This comparison highlights a perceived shift in the SNP's priorities, suggesting that it may be losing its original mission in favor of political survival.

He further stated, “This is shaping up to be the dullest, least ambitious and least visionary administration in the history of Holyrood.” McAlpine called for a “new SNP,” arguing that the party is no longer a viable vehicle for independence. “Unless the party's members and the wider movement rebel, that's your lot,” he added, indicating that without a grassroots push for change, the current leadership may continue down a path of inaction.

Why are the SNP avoiding discussions about the future for Scottish independence?

One unnamed SNP member echoed similar sentiments, describing the draft referendum bill as “a totally pointless and performative bill.” They criticized the party for prioritizing performance over genuine advancement of independence. This sentiment reflects a broader frustration within the party, as members seek meaningful engagement in discussions that could shape the future of Scotland.

Another SNP councillor, Mhairi Hunter, contended that independence is “not being ignored,” referencing a recent National Assembly on independence strategy. She emphasized the need for detailed policies for a post-Brexit UK scenario, arguing that the 2014 case requires updates. Hunter's comments highlight the complexities of the current political landscape, including the implications of Brexit on Scotland's independence aspirations.

Former SNP MP Stewart McDonald expressed skepticism regarding the criticism of the lack of debate at the party’s conference. He suggested that defeating the idea of a de facto referendum would be beneficial, labeling it an “appalling idea.” His remarks indicate a division within the party regarding the best strategy to pursue independence, with some advocating for a more cautious approach.

Scottish Greens co-leader Gillian Mackay urged the Scottish Government to focus on building support for independence, emphasizing that the recent draft bill reflects a growing demand for it. The Scottish Greens have historically aligned with the SNP on many issues, particularly regarding environmental policies and social justice, but they too are navigating the complexities of the independence debate.

Unionist politicians reacted predictably to the draft referendum bill, with Scottish Tory leader Russell Findlay criticizing Swinney’s approach, suggesting he should focus on pressing issues like NHS waitlists and tax reforms. This response underscores the ongoing tensions between pro-independence and unionist factions within Scottish politics, as each side seeks to advance its agenda.

As the SNP navigates this internal conflict, the future of its independence strategy remains uncertain, with calls for a more open and democratic approach to discussions within the party. The implications of this internal strife could extend beyond party lines, potentially influencing the broader political landscape in Scotland as the independence movement continues to evolve. The outcome of this situation may also have repercussions for the SNP’s electoral prospects, as party members and the public alike watch closely to see how leadership responds to the growing demand for a more inclusive and transparent dialogue on independence.