​’Formidable’ Sturgeon failed in core objective of Scottish independence

​Scottish Health Secretary Humza Yousaf and former minister Ash Regan are the only two SNP members to declare their intentions since Ms Sturgeon revealed on Wednesday that she was stepping aside.

DUP leader Mr Donaldson said: “There is no doubt that Nicola Sturgeon was a formidable politician, and yet she departs the stage without having achieved her core objective in pressing forward the case for Scottish independence, and I think the Union is stronger today than it was at the [2014] referendum.

“Her successor, whoever they may be, will have an uphill task in persuading the people of Scotland that they are better off out of the Union.”

He added: “I think that the Covid pandemic, and the cost-of-living crisis, has demonstrated very clearly to people, across the UK, that we are stronger together, and that the support than can be provided to people during such crises is very much dependent on our collective firepower as a United Kingdom, in terms of delivering Treasury support to individuals, families and businesses."

Mr Yousaf, announcing his leadership bid in the Sunday Mail, said he had been through a “rollercoaster of emotions” since Ms Sturgeon announced her resignation.

He said: “You’ve got to put yourself forward if you think you’re the best person for the job. And I do. This is the top job in the country, and it needs somebody who has experience.”

In the Sunday Mail, Ms Regan said: “We need to bring back unity, draw a line under certain things and move past them. I believe I am the person to do that. The electorate expect the Scottish government to focus on things that are important to them.”

Another potential candidate is Finance Secretary Kate Forbes. Mairi McAllan ruled herself out yesterday.

Candidates have until Friday to receive more than the threshold of 100 nominations from at least 20 local branches.

If more than one candidate passes that mark, an election will be triggered, culminating on March 27.