Many think that the alternative still lies with the SNP but with the intended changes to its own constitution what we see is more of the same. A party not to be led by its members but one that seeks to wield its power from the top down and a figurehead almost impossible to remove. Translate that kind of dictatorship to how they would run the country…..another iron fist approach!

Do we really need more poison running through the veins of government than we already have?

We in Scotland have choices but that doesn’t necessarily mean the choice would be easier during its immediate execution. There are no quick fixes, no silver bullets. What it would bring if we have to courage to leap, is a country that believes in its people, cares for its people and is run by the people. It is called Direct Democracy and it will clear out the poison that is within our present system.

All system changes have short-term turbulence and anyone telling you anything different is deluding themselves and you!

We must not let Fear rob us of this opportunity.

It must be fight not flight!

Nothing and no one is perfect so let’s not pretend we are. Mistakes will be made, but tell me something, what kind of person do you want to take this country forward? The person who when they make a mistake, hold their hands up and apologises, or someone whose ego demands they blame others, hide and lie to cover up their errors…..and where will the lying end?

Which one has integrity?

The Scottish alternative to Westminster could be so different.

2026 is the year we can make it so.

Joan McDowall