Commenting as Nicola Sturgeon steps down as First Minister of Scotland, Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston said:
“It is important to recognise the difficult nature of leading a country, and the immense sacrifice and commitment it requires.
"In recent years, UK leaders across the Home Nations have faced a myriad of challenges, including the cost of living crisis, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
"While I may disagree with Nicola Sturgeon on almost every issue, I do recognise the positive impact of her highlighting the need to improve the lives of children in care, as well as her respectful handling of the late Queen Elizabeth II's passing.
“It is always easier to judge a leader's time in office retrospectively, and Nicola’s Sturgeon legacy will ultimately be decided by history.
"What is important now is that the new First Minister is focused on delivering better schools, addressing the crisis in our NHS and investing in infrastructure. And that they work to build an economy which supports jobs and livelihoods across our country and across the Highlands and Islands.
"Whoever the SNP chooses to succeed Nicola Sturgeon as First Minister, they must put the needs and priorities of the Scottish people above those of their party”.
