Scotland’s first minister Nicola Sturgeon resigns: British Asian politicians congratulate her for a remarkable tenure

Image by Twitter @AnumSNP

Scotland’s first minister, Nicola Sturgeon, resigned from her post on 15 February after eight years in office.

Considered to be one of the most powerful and well-known politicians in the country, Sturgeon’s resignation caused many of the Scottish independence supporters to feel upset over her decision; while those opposed to it felt overjoyed.

Over the past eight years, the 52-year-old leader has led the country through several tumultuous times and been part of many controversies. However, what stood out to many was her resilience, her ability to lead, and be the voice of Scottish independence which many in the country strongly feel about.

In her speech announcing her decision to resign, she mentioned that she will remain in office until a successor has been elected to take her place.

The news about the remarkable politician to step down saw some warm reactions and statements by several British Asian politicians.

Anas Sarwar, the leader of the Scottish Labour Party said, “Nicola Sturgeon has led Scotland through some of the most challenging times in our history.

“It is right that today we pay tribute to those achievements, particularly during the pandemic.

“Regardless of our differences, she is an able politician who has stood at the forefront of Scottish politics for more than 20 years. On a human level that is worthy of respect and thanks.

“To lead your country for almost a decade is a political achievement that secures her place in history.

“While we have disagreed passionately about what is best for our people, I have never for a moment doubted her passion for Scotland.

“All too often it is easy to forget that those on the frontline of our politics carry a heavy burden – not only for themselves but for their friends and families.

“I – and my entire party – wish her the best in whatever she does next.

“But our country, now more than ever, requires a politics focussed on delivering the change Scotland needs – by uniting Scotland and not dividing it.

“It is clear that Scotland needs new ideas and new passion to make our country the best place to grow up and grow old in.

“Labour will aspire to win the confidence of the public – and be the change that Scotland needs.”

Glasgow Kelvin SNP MSP Kaukab Stewart said, “Nicola Sturgeon has served Scotland and the SNP with distinction. She is not only the first female First Minister but has also been the longest serving. Both of these are stunning achievements in themselves.

“She has shown great courage and an unrivalled political instinct that we have come to know in taking the difficult decision to stand down. No one has achieved more in elected office for the SNP, for Scottish politics and for the people and communities of Scotland.

“Her electoral success has contributed to all of our personal and local electoral success and ensured that the SNP – the party that more people in Scotland still trust more than any other – are playing a key role in supporting communities, people and businesses at local as well as national level.

“We are all human beings as well as politicians. Being in the front line of politics takes its toll, not only on the individuals but also on people’s families and friends. No one has borne that more than Nicola Sturgeon, not least as she led our nation through the uncharted waters of a global pandemic. As the First Minister herself has said, her resignation also gives us all an opportunity as politicians to reflect and consider the current nature of and culture in politics.

“All parties have an opportunity to try to de-polarise public debate, to focus more on issues, and to reset the tone and tenor of our discourse. As an SNP MSP I will seek to do that and reach across the divide.

“And of course, Nicola Sturgeon has led our country further on the path to independence. Hers is a huge legacy on which to build and grow and we will do our best to do so – not least to complete the journey to independence.

“We welcome that she intends to keep travelling on that journey with our party and members and that she is not intending to leave politics. There is after all still work for us all to do to realise Scotland’s full potential.

“I respect her decision, while also lamenting the loss of her intellect, foresight, energy, drive, passion and love for Scotland. We are unlikely to see her likes again.”

Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Humza Yousaf, wrote on Twitter, “Gutted @NicolaSturgeon is standing down, but I know hard she has reflected on this decision. I have had enormous pleasure of being in her Govt for the time she has been FM, and I can safely say she has always put interests of the Country first, and governed for all of Scotland.

“She is right, politics can be brutal, it impacts on our relationships, our families and of course on our own physical and mental health. I hope the FM gets to experience some kind of normality upon standing down, she certainly deserves it.

“From leading our response to the pandemic to leading the independence movement to new heights, and many achievements in-between, @NicolaSturgeon should be very proud of what she has achieved as First Minister. I am proud to call her my friend. #ThankYouNicola.”

SNP MP for Airdrie and Shotts, Anum Qaisar wrote, “@NicolaSturgeon has showcased that you can be an articulate + courageous woman in politics, whilst showcasing kindness and compassion. I’m absolutely devastated. Her resilience has always and will continue to inspire me + other women. Thank you Nicola.”