Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, is stepping down after more than eight years in office.
She has led the Scottish National Party (SNP) since November 2014, succeeding Alex Salmond after Scotland’s independence referendum. But how do you rate her tenure in office, and was she correct to step down?
Ms Sturgeon has faced several political setbacks in recent weeks, including the UK Supreme Court’s decision to block her plans for a second independence referendum and a controversy over transgender rights after a double rapist was sentenced to female prison.
Speaking at Bute House in Edinburgh on Wednesday morning, February 15, she stated that the “time is right” for her to step down, adding that she knows “instinctively” that it is time.
She acknowledged that the “decision is not a reaction to short-term pressures”. “I know it may appear sudden, but I’ve been wrestling with it with varying degrees of intensity for a few weeks,” she explained.
“My decision comes from a place of duty and love,” Ms Sturgeon added.
Ms Sturgeon will stay in her position until her successor takes over. Professor Sir John Curtice of Strathclyde University, a polling expert, told the BBC that “no obvious successor” exists.
According to bookmaker Coral, Angus Robertson, Scottish Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution, External Affairs, and Culture, is the 5-4 favourite to become First Minister. Kate Forbes, the Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Finance and the Economy, has odds of 7-4, while Humza Yousaf, the Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, has odds of 10-1.
Meanwhile, Deputy Leader of the Scottish National Party Keith Brown and Deputy First Minister of Scotland John Swinney are both 12-1. Joanna Cherry, SNP MSP for Edinburgh South West is at 33-1.
So, what are your thoughts? Was her decision to resign just right? Who should take her place? Let your voice heard!