Swinney will return to Scotland's independence path if he wins the election by a sufficient majority

Five months after the Scottish elections in May 2026, the Scottish Chief Minister has announced thatprogress towards Scotland's independence will be at the heart of his political agenda.

At the Glasgow Science Center this December 8, the Scottish Nationalist Party (SNP)held its first major campaign event, in which the nationalist leader ensured that Scotland needs "a new start" to manage its resources and set its economic course.

Swinney has argued that for decades Scotland has contributed significantly to the UK economy, but has suffered the disastrous consequences of decisions taken in London. He has therefore argued that, if independent, the country's energy and fiscal wealth could be used to benefitthe Scots.  Indeed, he has accused the Westminster government of "sacrificing" the northern energy sector with current policies.

the SNP leader has announced that  "If we win the May elections by a sufficient majority, I will take the necessary steps to ensure that Scotland clearly determines its future, because Scotland's democratic aspirations must be respected."

He recalled that in 2011 a nationalist majority allowed the 2014 referendum to take place - although he won the 'no' vote - and stressed that democratic arguments for Scotland to decide its future are 'unquestionable'.

At the moment, the way for a new consultation is still blocked, because the United Kingdom Supreme Court ruled in 2022  that the Scottish Parliament cannot call a referendum without the consent of the British Parliament.

However, the SNP hopes to strengthen political pressure on London in the event of a strong outcome in May.