The head of the SNP explains that the shocking news is not the result of “short-term pressures” but rather because the work “can only be performed for so long and is now at risk of becoming too lengthy.”
First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon has announced her resignation, stating that the role “takes a toll on you and everyone around you.”
The SNP leader made the shocking declaration during a press conference at her official residence in Edinburgh, Bute House.
She stated that it had been “the best work in the world” and that it had “sustained and inspired me in good times and the most difficult hours of my most difficult days.”
Ms. Sturgeon, however, believes that part of “serving well” is knowing “almost instinctively when the time is right” to stand aside, adding, “In my head and my heart, I know that moment is now, that it is appropriate for me, my party, and the country.
The longest-serving and first-ever female premier claimed that her choice was not influenced by “short-term concerns.” Such as the ongoing debates within her party regarding transgender rights.
She said her decision “frees the SNP to select the course it feels is right” on Scottish independence. Which would be discussed at a special conference next month, “without worrying about the perceived repercussions on my leadership.”
Ms. Sturgeon stated that it was also a personal decision, stating. “I am a human being in addition to being a politician. This task can only be accomplished by devoting every ounce of your being to it. The nation merits nothing less.
“However, in reality, that can only be done for a limited time by anyone. It is in danger of becoming too long for me.
She said, “To people who are astonished, dismayed, or perhaps even a little furious with me, please understand that this is difficult for me.
“My decision is based on both responsibility and affection. Perhaps a difficult love, but love nonetheless for my party and, above all, for my country.”
The prime minister indicated she will remain in office until a successor is appointed and will remain an MSP until at least the next Holyrood election.
She stated that the SNP would outline the process for electing a new leader within the next few days. But she declined to name her favorite candidate.
“Devastated”
Members of her party have lauded her tenure in government, with SNP president Michael Russell expressing gratitude for the “exceptional and remarkable leadership of her party and nation.”
Alison Thewliss, an SNP representative, said she was “extremely devastated” by the news and added. “Nicola has been an extraordinary leader.”
And another MP Stewart McDonald referred to Ms. Sturgeon as “the outstanding public servant of the devolution era” and stated that her departure would be “a tremendous loss” for the country and party.
Others beyond the SNP have also expressed respect, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Who thanked her for “her long-standing service” and added, “I wish her the best in her future endeavors.”
In addition, Scotland secretary Alister Jack referred to her as “a strong politician.”
Ms. Sturgeon has headed the party and the nation since 2014. When she succeeded Alex Salmond, making her the longest-serving and first female first minister since Holyrood’s devolution.
But she has been a member of the SNP her entire adult life, having joined at age 16.
She won every election as first minister and fought for a second Scottish independence referendum.
This, along with her staunch anti-Brexit attitude, has placed her at odds with the UK government. Led by the Conservatives, who support maintaining the United Kingdom’s unity and have refused to grant another independence vote.
“After 15 years of failure, the SNP had run out of road,” said a senior Labour source.
I will forever be a feminist.
In recent months, Ms. Sturgeon has faced several challenging problems. Including party divisions over her approach to transgender rights and her gender recognition bill.
Despite passing the law in Holyrood, which would have allowed people to legally alter their gender in Scotland without a medical diagnosis of gender dysphoria, the bill was subsequently stopped by Westminster because it would have a “significant impact” on equality.
Ms. Sturgeon responded no but pleaded for “a more reasonable approach to these issues”. When asked whether this problem influenced her ultimate choice.
She continued, “One, in particular, is certainly problematic in its own right.” “However, I believe that on top of that, there have been people’s opinions about me, about independence, and spontaneous arguments that should be rational and that we as a country are capable of rationally becoming something [other].
“Feminism, inclusion, equality, human rights, and decency have always been my beliefs. Every day that I breathe, I will fight for women’s rights and against threats to those rights.
“However, I will also defend any stigmatized, discriminated, marginalized, or vulnerable minority in society”.
And I believe that these things can and must find ways to coexist in any progressive, liberal, inclusive society, and regardless of what role I play in politics in the future, I will always strive to make this a reality.
SNP MP Joanna Cherry, a longtime critic of Ms. Sturgeon’s attitude to transgender matters, has called for “change and healing” in the wake of the departure of the first minister.
“It is crucial that (the SNP) responds to Nicola Sturgeon’s departure in a manner that benefits the country and the cause of independence,” tweeted the representative for Edinburgh South West. “Our party needs a leadership election in which policies, not people, take precedence.
“We must restore the SNP’s history of internal party democracy, open courteous debate, and intellectual rigor. And place the wellbeing of all Scots at the forefront of our efforts.”
