In the same week that it was confirmed that Scotland’s 16 and 17-year-olds will have the opportunity to vote in the referendum on Scotland’s future, Young Scots for Independence has announced that membership has reached 2,000 members.
12-year-old Makki Tahir, the 2,000th member, spoke to SNP Conference today and said that he was excited about Scotland’s future and wanted to see his country flourish when he grows up.
The Young Scots for Independence are the youth wing of the SNP, with membership open to everyone under the age of 30.
Commenting, Alex Salmond MSP said:
“Young people are taking a keen interest in politics – and in particular the debate on Scotland’s future.
“Makki’s confident address to delegates today is a huge credit to him and young people of his age, and I’m sure he has a bright future ahead of him in whatever he decides to do.”
David Linden, National Convener of the Young Scots for Independence added:
“This has been a great week for young people in Scotland and the YSI in particular. Earlier this week we got confirmation that the Scottish Parliament would have the opportunity to give 16 and 17 year olds a vote in the coming referendum.
“Today the Young Scots for Independence has recruited its 2,000th member as young people across the country flock to play their part in winning the coming vote. I am delighted to welcome Makki to the YSI and I’m sure he’ll have many positive years ahead of him as a member.”
After receiving a standing ovation from delegates, Makki Tahir, the 2,000th member of the Young Scots for Independence said:
“I care about the future of Scotland, and so do most young people. There is a massive decision to be made about what happens to our country and I am already convinced about the case for independence.
“We need to make our own decisions on what Scotland needs, which is why I’ve joined the YSI.”