Former Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon dramatically quit today insisting she wants to start a ‘new chapter’ outside of politics.
The ex-SNP leader announced she will be standing down as the MSP for Glasgow Southside at elections next spring.
Ms Sturgeon ruled Scottish politics for years before she resigned as first minister and party leader in March 2023.
News that she will not stand comes despite reports she had been given the green light by the party to stand as a candidate.
Ms Sturgeon was arrested in 2023 in relation to Operation Branchform, a police investigation into the SNP’s finances.
She was subsequently released without charge pending further investigation, while her husband and former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell was eventually charged in relation to the alleged embezzlement of party funds.
Earlier this year, the pair announced their separation and planned divorce.
Nicola Sturgeon will not seek re-election to Holyrood next year
In a letter to local SNP members posted on Instagram, she said: ‘I am writing to let you know that I have decided not to seek re-election to the Scottish Parliament next year.
‘Reaching this decision has been far from easy, 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.
‘Whoever you choose will have my full support and I look forward to campaigning alongside you to ensure that Glasgow Southside remains an SNP-held constituency.’
Ms Sturgeon said she will be with the SNP ‘every step of the way’ towards independence, despite stepping down as an MSP.
‘To my constituents, past and present: thank you for the trust you have placed in me. Being your MSP has been my privilege and I will continue to represent you to the best of my abilities until I step down next year,’ she said in a post alongside her announcement.
‘To Southside SNP members: your support, loyalty and friendship, through thick and thin, has meant more to me than you will ever know. You are the best of the best.
‘To SNP members across the country: I may be leaving Parliament, but I will be by your side every step of the way as we complete our journey to independence.’
