The veteran MSP expresses frustration over SNP's unfulfilled promises on key infrastructure projects.
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Fergus Ewing, the long-serving Scottish National Party (SNP) Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) for Inverness and Nairn, has announced that he will not stand for the SNP in the upcoming elections. This decision comes as a significant blow to the party, particularly given Ewing’s history and influence within the nationalist movement.
He has expressed his willingness to run as an independent candidate if the SNP does not make substantial progress on the dualing of the A9 and A96 roads, which are crucial for his constituency.
Frustration with party leadership
Since moving to the backbenches in 2021, Ewing has become increasingly critical of the SNP’s leadership and its failure to deliver on key promises.
He articulated his disappointment in a recent interview, stating, “I cannot defend the lack of delivery on key promises.” Ewing’s frustration stems from the SNP’s inability to fulfill its commitments regarding vital infrastructure projects that directly impact the lives of his constituents. He emphasized the importance of these projects, saying, “The key issue for me as a constituency MSP is delivery on the promises both I and my party have made at election after election.” This sentiment resonates with many constituents who feel let down by the party’s inaction.
Potential shift in political landscape
Ewing’s potential candidacy as an independent could signal a significant shift in the political landscape of Scotland. His decision not to resign from the SNP immediately reflects a deep-rooted loyalty to the party that has been a part of his identity for decades. However, his willingness to run independently highlights a growing rift within the party, as members like Ewing seek to prioritize local interests over party politics. He stated, “Unless substantial and significant progress is made before next March on both dualled road projects, I may consider standing next year as an independent candidate.” This statement underscores the urgency for the SNP to address these critical issues or risk losing influential members like Ewing.
Criticism of SNP’s direction
In addition to his concerns about infrastructure, Ewing has voiced criticism regarding the SNP’s recent policy shifts, particularly its stance on oil and gas. He has opposed the party’s power-sharing agreement with the Greens and has been vocal against controversial transgender law reforms. Ewing’s comments reflect a broader concern among some party members that the SNP is straying from its original mission to represent all of Scotland. He remarked, “The SNP is just no longer the party for all of Scotland, as it has been for most of my 50 years as a member.” This discontent could lead to further fragmentation within the party if not addressed.
As the political landscape evolves, Ewing’s potential independent candidacy may serve as a bellwether for the SNP’s future. With the upcoming elections on the horizon, the party faces mounting pressure to deliver on its promises and maintain its support among constituents. Ewing’s journey reflects the challenges faced by many within the SNP, as they navigate the complexities of party loyalty, local interests, and the pressing need for accountability.
