SNP members should use the party’s deputy leadership contest to send a clear message to Nicola Sturgeon that they want a second independence referendum within the next 18 months, according to one of the candidates in the race. The call comes as the party prepares for what could be a defining moment in Scotland’s political landscape, with internal debates over the timing and strategy for another independence vote intensifying.
The candidate, whose name has not been disclosed in initial reports, argued that the deputy leadership contest provides a unique opportunity for grassroots members to influence the party’s direction. With the Scottish Parliament elections in 2021 still fresh in voters’ minds, the push for a referendum reflects growing impatience among some SNP supporters who see independence as the ultimate goal.
This latest development follows months of speculation about the SNP’s next moves on independence. Nicola Sturgeon, the party’s leader and Scotland’s First Minister, has previously stated that her government would seek to hold a referendum once the COVID-19 pandemic is under control. However, Westminster has consistently rejected calls for a second vote, setting the stage for a potential constitutional clash.
Political analysts suggest that the deputy leadership contest could serve as a barometer of party sentiment. “This isn’t just about choosing a deputy leader,” said one expert. “It’s about gauging the mood of the SNP’s membership and how they want the party to proceed on independence. The result could have significant implications for the broader independence movement.”
As the contest unfolds, members are being encouraged to voice their views on the timing of a referendum. The candidate’s call for action within 18 months highlights the urgency felt by some within the party, particularly after the pro-independence majority in the Scottish Parliament was reaffirmed in last year’s elections.
For those following Scottish politics, this contest is more than a routine leadership race—it’s a chance to shape the future of the independence debate. Members are being urged to engage actively and make their voices heard, as the outcome could set the tone for Scotland’s political agenda in the years to come. Read more about the contest and its implications here.
Key takeaway: SNP members have a rare opportunity to influence the party’s stance on independence through the deputy leadership contest. With the debate over a second referendum ongoing, this contest could be pivotal in determining the next steps for Scotland’s independence movement.
