Former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s announcement to step down from her role and not seek re-election in the 2026 Holyrood elections has generated a wave of critical reflection amid an unsettling time for Scottish politics. In her Instagram post and subsequent media briefing in Edinburgh, she conveyed a sense of relief and sadness, but for many, her resignation only underscores the failings of her leadership and the ongoing crisis within the Scottish National Party (SNP).

Sturgeon’s tenure was marred by a lack of tangible progress on critical issues, notably the education attainment gap which she acknowledged in her farewell remarks. Her claims of dedicated service to making Scotland a better place ring hollow for those who have watched the growing disparities in education and health during her time, worsening under her watch. The ineffective policies and unfulfilled promises have left many questioning her legacy, far removed from the lofty ambitions she often espoused.

Having led Scottish government from 2014 until her resignation in February 2023, Sturgeon has had ample time to deliver on her goals, particularly following her predecessor Alex Salmond’s resignation post-referendum in 2014. Yet, her regret over the independence referendum results—where the Yes campaign fell short at 45%—brings to light her administration’s failure to galvanize the public in pursuit of a historic objective. Rather than liberating Scotland from the clutches of Westminster, her leadership seemed to have only entrenched its ties further.

Under her leadership, initiatives such as the abolition of prescription charges may have been well-meaning but ultimately failed to address the root issues plaguing the health system. The SNP’s approach, often focused on political grandstanding rather than pragmatic solutions, has resulted in a legacy of disappointment that must be confronted head-on.

In light of the shocking investigations into the SNP’s financial dealings, which led to the arrests of key party figures, including her husband, Sturgeon’s assurances that these events did not influence her departure appear disingenuous. The reality of a party in turmoil can no longer be ignored, and her words ring of desperation in a bid to separate her downfall from the consequences of her governance.

With her upcoming memoir touted as a reflective account of her life and political career, many will be eager to dissect the narratives she chooses to present. However, the political response to her resignation reveals a broader sentiment among critics. Scottish Conservative deputy leader Rachael Hamilton encapsulated the view that Sturgeon’s legacy is one of failure—an assessment many share, reflecting disillusionment among constituents who sought substantive change.

As she prepares to close this chapter, the question arises: Can the SNP truly move forward from Sturgeon’s controversial legacy, or are they bound to repeat the mistakes of the past? With Scotland’s political landscape shifting and the return of stronger opposition voices growing ever more relevant, the future direction of the party remains uncertain. The cries for sincere accountability and a hard look at the past remain louder than ever, echoing the urgent need for a fresh approach in Scottish politics.

Source: Noah Wire Services