Nicola Sturgeon said making the decision had been "far from easy". She added: "However, I have known in my heart for a while that the time is right for me to embrace different opportunities in a new chapter of my life, and to allow you to select a new standard bearer."placeholder image
Nicola Sturgeon said making the decision had been "far from easy". She added: "However, I have known in my heart for a while that the time is right for me to embrace different opportunities in a new chapter of my life, and to allow you to select a new standard bearer." | PA

Nicola Sturgeon: The best reaction to 'undeniable' former SNP leader as she steps down from Scottish politics

Alexander Brown
By Alexander Brown

Westminster Correspondent

Published 12th Mar 2025, 11:28 BST
Updated 12th Mar 2025, 15:09 BST

It’s the end of an era

Former Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced she will not seek re-election to Holyrood next year.

Ms Sturgeon – who represents the Glasgow Southside constituency – made the announcement on Instagram on Wednesday.

Here is the reaction from Scottish politicians as the SNP stalwart bids farewell.

Veteran Tory MSP and The Scotsman columnist Murdo Fraser said: "Nicola Sturgeon divided Scotland, trampled over women’s rights and dismissed their concerns as ‘not valid’, hiked taxes and left public services in ruins. I wish her well in retirement."

9. Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser

Veteran Tory MSP and The Scotsman columnist Murdo Fraser said: "Nicola Sturgeon divided Scotland, trampled over women’s rights and dismissed their concerns as ‘not valid’, hiked taxes and left public services in ruins. I wish her well in retirement." | Lisa Ferguson

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Scottish Green Party co-leader Lorna Slater said: "Thank you @NicolaSturgeon - for your kindness, your leadership, your comradery and co-operation, we can't wait to see what you do next."

10. Scottish Greens co-leader Lorna Slater

Scottish Green Party co-leader Lorna Slater said: "Thank you @NicolaSturgeon - for your kindness, your leadership, your comradery and co-operation, we can't wait to see what you do next." Photo: Lisa Ferguson

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