SNP Candidate Withdraws Following Benefits Fraud Inquiry
An SNP candidate for the upcoming Holyrood election in May has decided to stand down after it was revealed that she is under investigation for an alleged benefits fraud.
Sally Donald, who was selected to contest the Edinburgh Southern seat, is currently being investigated by Social Security Scotland regarding claims she made for the Adult Disability Payment, as first reported by The Scotsman.
Donald, an SNP staffer, announced her withdrawal from the election while firmly denying any wrongdoing.
She works for MP Graham Leadbitter and stated that she did not want the recent media coverage to detract from the SNP’s campaign efforts.
Previously, Donald worked for Culture Secretary Angus Robertson and has developed a significant social media presence where she actively promotes the SNP.
Campaign Distraction Cited as Reason for Withdrawal
In an Instagram post, Donald expressed regret over her decision not to stand in the May election.
"While I strenuously deny any and all wrongdoing, I do not want recent reporting to distract any further from the excellent campaign being run in Edinburgh Southern."
She also thanked her supporters and extended well wishes to the campaign team and the new candidate.
"I wish the team and the new candidate all the best for 7 May."
Donald was previously introduced as the SNP candidate for Edinburgh Southern at an event where she was joined on stage by First Minister John Swinney.
She has also shared posts about autism on social media platforms.
Details on Adult Disability Payment and Investigation Process
The Adult Disability Payment is a benefit provided to individuals with long-term illnesses or disabilities that impact their daily lives. The payment can amount to thousands of pounds annually.
When a claimant is suspected of fraud, Social Security Scotland’s counter-fraud branch may conduct an interview under caution. If sufficient evidence is found, the case can be referred to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service for further action.
Political Reactions
Alexander Stewart, a spokesman for the Scottish Conservative security secretary, commented on the situation.
"Sally Donald's position as a candidate was clearly untenable and it's right that she's stepped down."
He further criticized the Scottish benefits system, stating it was not "fit for purpose."
An SNP spokesperson confirmed that Donald had informed the party of her decision to no longer stand as a candidate.
Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie also responded to the development.
"Sally Donald has made the correct call to stand down as a Scottish Parliamentary candidate. However, serious questions still remain unanswered.
Ms Donald was selected by the SNP as a candidate in March 2025, and yet we are still in the dark about what SNP bosses knew and when about the benefits fraud investigation, and the allegations made against her."
