Devendra Kumar
Former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon firmly maintains her innocence in the face of arrest and investigation into alleged financial impropriety by the Scottish National Party. She was taken into custody on Sunday and held for around seven hours before being released pending further investigation, joining two other high-profile SNP politicians who have also been arrested in connection with the probe. The investigation began in July 2021, with complaints of irregularities in the party’s finances raised almost two years ago.
Sturgeon expressed her shock and distress at the situation, stating that she is certain she has committed no offense. She acknowledged that the ongoing investigation is difficult for everyone involved, but emphasized that she would never do anything to harm the SNP or the country. The former leader reiterated her innocence, asserting that she knows beyond doubt that she is innocent of any wrongdoing. She praised her family and friends for their support, saying they have given her much-needed strength during this challenging time.
Sturgeon’s statement concluded with a message of gratitude to those who have sent messages of support, as well as her plans to take a day or two to process the latest development before returning to Parliament to continue serving her Glasgow Southside constituents. The investigation has been ongoing since July 2021, with no charges filed against any of the arrested individuals, including Peter Murrell, former SNP chief executive, and Colin Beattie MSP, former SNP treasurer. Despite the arrest, Sturgeon remains committed to her role as a representative and intends to continue serving her constituents to the best of her ability.