“We can do better than this, and we have no right not to try. We have no shortage of those who have not given up.”
Nicola Sturgeon
“A mooted SNP-Green pact has inspired some profoundly weird reactions, and it’s worth asking what they are supposed to achieve.”
Sean Bell: Who’s afraid of the Scottish Greens?
There is a thread linking criticisms about financial transparency with Biagi’s resignation. Both centre on claims that the SNP is not making preparations for a referendum this term.
Source Direct: Something Rotten?
From the SNP’s perspective, there are clear advantages. This buys Sturgeon (a politician broadly in the centrist tradition) oodles of left cover at low cost. Questions thus centre on the Greens.
Source Direct: Coalition? The Dog That Didn’t Bark – Then Did
“Kenmure Street was a stunningly successful example of solidarity and nonviolent resistance. We should not be surprised if the authorities’ next moves attempt to make both of these untenable.”
Sean Bell: The aftermath of Kenmure Street leaves challenges for us all
Sturgeon remains intent on governing as before, appeasing the Left with low-cost cultural liberalism, appeasing the right with low taxes and by perpetuating wealth and privilege intact.
Source Direct: Non-Coalition of Chaos
“Independence supporters face the prospect of explaining and reaffirming the expanded mandate for they have won. Many will not look forward to beating their head against this particular brick wall once again, as the unionist counter-argument will only become more shrill, obstinate and unconcerned with democracy the more they are put on the defensive.”
Sean Bell: After the election, what comes next?
“Tomorrow’s Holyrood election – for which more than 4.2 million people have registered to vote, the highest number yet recorded – has arguably frustrated Scotland’s politicians at least as much as the public on whom their futures depend.”
Sean Bell: What kind of election campaign has it been?
Neil Mackay is one of Scotland’s most respected columnists – and one of the most reliably pro-Sturgeon. His scathing assessment of the SNP’s campaign therefore merits attention
Source Direct: An Independence Election?
Five years on from the Brexit vote, everything has been leading to this moment of truth for independence. But that mood of certainty is giving way to frustration and self-doubt. Whisper it, but the Yes bloc is experiencing an identity crisis.