SNP leadership hopefuls share visions for Scotland’s future amid independence discussions.

An independent Scotland could achieve greater prosperity within a decade, according to Scottish Finance Secretary Kate Forbes. As one of three candidates vying to succeed Nicola Sturgeon as SNP leader and First Minister, Forbes outlined her vision for an independent, wealthier, and fairer Scotland during a hustings event.

Forbes emphasised the importance of presenting tangible benefits of independence to the public. “In the first 10 years of independence, we need to show Scotland can be greener, wealthier, and fairer,” she said, adding, “We have the resources and potential to be one of the most successful nations.”

Ash Regan, former Community Safety Minister and another candidate, promised to revive the cross-party Yes campaign from 2014 and reach out to broader independence supporters. She expressed urgency in pursuing independence and proposed a manifesto commitment that a vote for the SNP would initiate talks with Westminster. “We need a new strategy to secure independence. The ballot box is our gold standard,” Regan stated, adding that international recognition would follow such an approach.

Meanwhile, Humza Yousaf, Scotland’s Health Secretary and another contender, declared that independence is “inevitable.” Positioning himself as the SNP’s “first activist,” he pledged to unite the independence movement and focus every election campaign on securing Holyrood’s right to hold another referendum. “I will take the message of independence to every community, door-to-door, to inspire the nation,” Yousaf said.

While acknowledging the SNP’s achievements over the past 16 years, Yousaf stressed the need to build on their progressive record. Forbes, however, subtly criticised Yousaf by highlighting the importance of stabilising the NHS over the next decade as part of ensuring public trust in independence.

The candidates agreed on the need to convince Scots that independence would bring tangible improvements to their lives, but their strategies diverged. Regan called for a change in approach, Forbes focused on competence and clarity, and Yousaf emphasised grassroots activism.

The leadership contest comes at a pivotal time for Scotland’s independence movement, with all three candidates aiming to galvanise support and chart a clear path towards breaking away from the UK.