A Highland councillor has joined Alex Salmond's Alba complaining of a 'lack of action' by his former party, the SNP, on independence.

Karl Rosie has complained that the SNP's policies were too centralised and did "not align with the needs of the Highlands".

"Two weeks ago, I took the difficult decision to resign my membership from the Scottish National Party," he said.

"Following long discussions with family, friends, and colleagues, and after consulting with the Alba Party leadership, I am pleased to announce my decision to join them as their first councillor at Highland Council."

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He added: "Over the past few years, it has become increasingly clear to me that the SNP's lack of action on Scottish independence and their centralised policies do not align with the needs of the Highlands."

Councillor Rosie went on to say he was dismayed by the treatment of Fergus Ewing by the SNP.

The long serving MSP for Inverness and Nairn was suspended by the SNP group in Holyrood for seven days last week after supporting a no confidence motion in Scottish Government minister and Scottish Greens co-leader Lorna Slater over her handling of the now defunct deposit return scheme.

Mr Ewing was a vocal critic of the recycling initiative which businesses in his constituency opposed because of extra costs it would mean for them.

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He said he had been standing up for his constituents by voting for the motion back in June and was readmitted to the SNP group at midnight on Tuesday though has continued to call the SNP to pull out of the Bute House Agreement with the Scottish Greens which he argues is damaging his own party.

Councillor Rosie added: "Despite my admiration for individuals like Fergus Ewing within the SNP for their pro-Highland stance, I am dismayed by the treatment he has received from his own party. His recent words and actions have struck a chord with many Highlanders, who feel let down by the Edinburgh government.

"Initially, I intended to continue to serve my constituents as an independent councillor. However, I then received a letter from one of our community councils, expressing their desperation due to decades of neglect and centralised policies and that along with several other factors, influenced my decision. 

"Their issues were those experienced by most communities across the Highlands, a crumbling road network, high energy costs in an energy rich region, a loss of key public services and depopulation. 

"While I believe bold leadership and robust policy are crucial for change, operating outside a party structure limits my effectiveness to improves the conditions experienced by our communities. Thus, I engaged in discussions with the Alba Party, who listened to my concerns and offered assurances that the needs of the Highlands would be prioritised.

"The Highlands face numerous challenges, overlooked by both London and Edinburgh governments. Despite our region's abundant natural resources, we struggle with an inadequate transport network, a centralised NHS system, and unaffordable housing, particularly for our youth and essential workers. 

"Lack of investment in infrastructure, digital connection and a slow progress on land reform have contributed to economic and population decline, which will only be reversed if urgent action is taken.

"To ensure the Highlands prosper, we require devolution of powers to our communities, greater control of our land and seas, investment in sustainable industries, and autonomy over housing and planning policies. 

"We need the ability to levy taxes reinvested within our communities, attract business and infrastructure investment, and ensure local public service delivery.

"By joining the Alba Party, I am committed to creating a regional manifesto aimed at achieving true economic and political reform for the Highlands and Islands. The Alba Party has the determination and robust policies that make them the ideal entity to pursue Scottish independence and address our region's unique needs.

"I assure all my constituents that I will continue working tirelessly on their behalf advocating independence for Scotland and Home Rule for the Highlands."

Councillor Rosie's defection comes a day after businessman Steve Chisholm announced he was joining Alba.

However, in recent days the party has also seen other prominent members leave amid a row over transgender issues.

Alba leader and former First Minister, Alex Salmond, said: "We are all delighted that Karl has joined.

He will be a great asset in building credibility to enable us to breakthrough in the Highlands and we keenly await his work on a Highlands manifesto.

"Combined with top North business leader Steve Chisholm joining yesterday, it shows Alba in the Highlands is on the move.”

Judith Reid, Secretary of Alba Highland said: “I know Karl personally and his joining is a great boost for Alba and the north of Scotland. That is two great additional members in just two days. Alba in the Highlands is certainly going places."

An SNP spokeswoman said: “The SNP-Independent administration have just successfully passed a budget that delivers for people and communities across the Highlands, and it’s a shame that Karl has chosen not to be part of that. The SNP will continue to focus on the priorities of local people and protecting them from damaging Westminster governments.” 


 

The SNP were approached for comment.