Keith Brown: It's time to believe in Scotland's potential

My answer is simple – only get involved if you believe in something. That’s how I started out.

I believed Scotland could be better – and I still do.

I believe decisions about Scotland should be made here, in Scotland.

Because Westminster isn’t working for us.

People locally rejected the Tories at the ballot box.

But now we have a UK Labour government offering more of the same.

More broken promises. More decisions made over our heads.

The early signs are clear – nothing fundamental is changing. That’s the real problem.

It doesn’t seem to matter who’s in charge at Westminster, Scotland’s voice is ignored.

That’s why I believe independence isn’t just desirable, it’s necessary.

It’s the only way to ensure our future reflects our values, priorities and potential.

Meanwhile, the SNP is focused on what we can do now – using the powers we have to make a real difference.

We’ve scrapped peak-time rail fares, making travel cheaper for commuters and families.

We’ve kept prescriptions free, protected the Winter Fuel Payment, and kept council tax and water charges lower than in England.

We’re also taking action on child poverty.

The Scottish Child Payment – described as "game-changing" by campaigners – is putting money straight into the pockets of low-income families.

These are choices that show the kind of country we want to be: fair, compassionate and ambitious.

And while our NHS, like others across the UK, faces challenges, Scotland’s A&E departments continue to perform better than anywhere else – thanks to record investment and the dedication of frontline staff.

With the next Scottish Parliament election now less than a year away, we have the chance to shape a new direction.

Over the coming months, the SNP will be making the case that independence is the best way to unlock Scotland’s potential.

We’ll also stand up for a principle that cuts across party lines: Scotland’s right to choose.

No Westminster government – of any colour – should be able to block our democratic voice.

And yet, that’s exactly what’s happening.

Time and again, Westminster refuses to say what the democratic route to independence is. That silence speaks volumes.

It shows a lack of respect for the Scottish Parliament and for the people who elect it.

This debate isn’t just about politics. It’s about democracy. It’s about whether people in Scotland get to decide our own future.

That’s why the upcoming election matters.

To move Scotland forward, we need a government with a strong, united voice for independence – and the SNP has always been that voice.

History shows that when the SNP wins, Scotland’s future moves forward.

Here in Clackmannanshire, I see that same drive and belief every day – in our volunteers, small businesses, teachers, NHS staff and neighbours helping one another.

We saw it clearly when local young people were named finalists at the Young Scot Awards – proof of the talent, leadership and pride that thrives in our communities.

We’re a small country – but with huge potential. I believe we can be fairer, greener, and more prosperous. But only if we take our future into our own hands.

It’s time to believe in that possibility again. It’s time to put Scotland’s future where it belongs – in Scotland’s hands.