A vocal SNP councillor has resigned claiming the party hampered his "freedom of speech."
SNP member for Troup Hamish Partridge tendered his resignation to the SNP Group within Aberdeenshire Council yesterday.
He will now continue his councillor duties as an independent.
Councillor Partridge told the Fraserburgh Herald: “I have over the past four years felt a constraint about what I could say publicly, especially around the GP shortages in the area.”
“At the end of the day I have always been a vocal councillor, I have been quite vocal in standing up and saying what I feel and what is best for my constituents and my area.”
He added: “I think I could best serve them as an independent.”
The councillor took to social media to confirm his announcement where he received overwhelming support from his followers.
Bill Birnie posted: "Well done , a big step in the right direction."
While Claire Conner said: "Good for you having courage of your conviction."
A spokesperson from the SNP group said “It’s been clear for some time Councillor Partridge has found it easier on occasions to act as an individual instead of seeking support of colleagues.”
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