Align only selects Canvas, it won't select layer (v3.2.4 2026)

[HFC3]

Just installed GIMP on new PC.  When I try to select a layer, it always selects the entire canvas.

1) I have shrunk all 3 "PVC" layers to "Content"

2) ALL 3 of the PVC layers are ABOVE the "Cabinet" main image (Canvas size) in the layer list
2.1) None of the layers are in a group/folder
2.2) Hiding "Cabinet" layer does NOT change how Align is working (it still selects entire canvas)
2.3) DELETING the "Cabinet" layers STILL selects entire canvas for align

Forum will not upload attachment images (upload failed, images are JPG <300kb).  They are just screenshots of the GIMP window showing the layer pane, and the align corner select blocks.  I've circled the selected layer corner blocks in both images indicating it's selecting the 
canvas, NOT the layer.

What am I either doing wrong, or is there an internal setting I have to update?

I did NOT have this issue in a previous installation (I had to replace that PC), which ha an older version of 3.2.4 installed (2025).  Odd that both were noted as v3.2.4, and 2026 (April) is the same version, but has this bug when the 2025 installation didn't.

Thank you

Forum won't upload image attachments.  I've got them on my server at;
http://krhyss.com/GIMP/
http://krhyss.com/GIMP/GIMPAlign.jpg

http://krhyss.com/GIMP/GIMPAlign-Cabinet-deleted

[rich2005]

Oh... 20 something years ago I worked in Aramco which used the "Universal Plumbing Code" (universal my a**e) and chlorinated pvc pipe

I had to "remake" your image a little for a CPVC layer, did not bother about the others and it depends what you want to align.

First, the align tool options is a bit wide, you need to widen the left side to show the extents options.
If Align ... Relative to .....   Image is set then you do get those corner indicators.
However that setup does (1) center horizontally and then (2) vertically.

   

For three little layers like that, not align tool which is awful, I would be inclined to put in a guide (s) and move manually.