Nicola Sturgeon: This is really why she resigned as Scotland's First Minister

Nicola Sturgeon’s resignation took people by surprise. She was seen fighting on many fronts for many years, campaigning for independent Scotland, challenging controversial practices, and showing that Holyrood had its own - different from Westminster’s - way to solve problems.

But, according to the former FM, after the Supreme Court ruled Scotland couldn't hold an independence referendum without the UK government's consent, she realised that standing aside would give the Scottish National Party (SNP) the best chance to decide on the best way forward.

Explaining her resignation, Nicola Sturgeon also admitted that the top job took its toll, referred to the lack of privacy and her desire to spend more time with her family.

Nicola Sturgeon on her resignation: ‘A first minister is never off duty’

After six years in the top job, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern bowed out earlier this year, citing burnout and not having ‘enough in the tank’ to lead. The brave move underlined the toll it takes to be a top politician, making Nicola Sturgeon’s departure look understandable.

Although the former FM insisted at the time that she still had ‘plenty left in the tank’, she had to admit during her resignation press-conference later that eight years as first minister, seven more as deputy and a lifetime in politics have been hard on her.

Nicola Sturgeon said that ‘a first minister is never off duty,’ pointing out that in this era there is ‘virtually no privacy’.

And she also mentioned wanting to spend more time with her niece and nephews.

Read more:

⋙ Nicola Sturgeon’s latest interview sparks speculations about her marriage: ‘Where is her wedding ring?’

Nicola Sturgeon, the next to be arrested?

In more recent news, the investigation into the SNP’s use of funds saw more arrests this month, andquestions have been raised about the real reason Nicola Sturgeon resigned.

Treasurer Colin Beattie was detained earlier this week but released without charge after facing a day of police questions.

Nicola Sturgeon's husband Peter Murrell - former SNP’s chief executive - was also arrested last week and questioned as a suspect while his home was raided. He was released without charges made 11 hours later.

Questions have mounted over a loan of more than £100,000 that Murrell gave to the party in June 2021 to help it out with a ‘cash flow’ issue. The couple were quizzed on the origin of finances used for the loan and explained the funds were entirely Murell’s.

The loan was reported late to the Electoral Commission and two repayments were made later that year by the SNP, but there was £60,000 left outstanding.

Meanwhile, senior party figures fear Nicola Sturgeon will be the next to be arrested in a probe of the party’s finances.

Read more:

⋙ Rishi Sunak's million dollar fortune comes from his wife: How rich is UK's Prime Minister?

⋙ Leaked footage of Nicola Sturgeon shows her issue harsh warning as SNP is now being investigated

Sources used:

- BBC News: 'Why did Nicola Sturgeon resign as first minister?'

- Sky News: 'SNP deputy first minister denies Nicola Sturgeon had responsibility in government scandal but says 'culture allowed to develop''

- Independent: 'SNP – latest news: Humza Yousaf faces FMQs amid Nicola Sturgeon arrest fears'