Call for change: Abu Meron to contest Scottish Parliament election

Abu Meron is set to contest the 2026 Scottish Parliament election as a candidate for the Workers Party of Britain.

Due to financial difficulties surrounding registration renewal, the leader of the Alba Party, Kenny MacAskill, decided on 8 March, along with five members of the party’s National Executive Committee, to dissolve the party. This decision came as a shock, especially since just four weeks earlier, on 7 February, the party had announced its list of candidates at a press conference in Dundee.

The sudden development caused deep disappointment among candidates and supporters, including Abu Meron. While some considered running as independents, others viewed it as a waste of time and resources under the circumstances.

Abu Meron, a long-standing figure in Scotland’s mainstream political landscape who rose from grassroots activism, is widely respected for his leadership and personal popularity. In light of this, both “Liberate Scotland” and the Workers Party extended invitations for him to join their ranks.

After consulting with supporters, activists, and political advisors, Abu Meron chose to join the Workers Party, led by George Galloway.

A long-time resident of Edinburgh, Meron quickly completed the party’s vetting process and secured nomination to stand in the Edinburgh Northern constituency, as well as on the party’s regional list for Edinburgh and the Lothians.

On 27 March, at a party conference held at the Pearce Institute in Glasgow, the Workers Party officially announced its candidates, confirming Abu Meron’s candidacy.

Following the announcement, Abu Meron said, “I stand before you not as a professional politician, but as an ordinary person who understands the daily pressures people face. Life is becoming harder. Rents, energy, and food costs are rising, while incomes are not keeping pace.

Public services are under strain, and waiting times in the National Health Service have increased significantly. Yet those in power are not listening.

The major political parties have had their chance, but they have failed to meet people’s expectations. That is why I am standing as a Workers Party candidate.

We believe people’s interests must always come first. We want fair wages, the right to housing, affordable energy, and public services that work for the people.

These are not extreme ideas—they are common sense. In one of the richest countries in the world, no one should have to choose between heating and eating.

It is unacceptable that corporate profits continue to rise while ordinary people struggle. Enough is enough. Our society is strong, and our people are hardworking. But the current system is not working for them.

Change is necessary. Politics must be the voice of ordinary people—not lobbyists, big donors, or elites. This campaign is not about me; it is about all of us. It is about building a fair society where no one is left behind and ensuring Scotland’s right to self-determination.

If you feel frustrated, you are not alone. If you feel ignored, you are not alone. And if you want change, now is the time. Together, we will send a clear message: change is essential. Together, we will stand for justice, dignity, and fairness. Together, we will put people before profit.”

Outside politics, Abu Meron is actively involved in charitable work both in the UK and internationally. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Edinburgh and a successful entrepreneur.

He has also been vocal on immigration reform, recently calling on Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, to adopt more transparent and humane policies.

Political analysts suggest that Abu Meron’s candidacy reflects the growing diversity in Scottish politics and could have a meaningful impact in the 2026 election.