Nicola Sturgeon Speaks Out After Police Investigation Clears Her of Wrongdoing

Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon expressed her relief and sense of vindication after it was confirmed that she will not face any charges in the long-running Police Scotland investigation into the Scottish National Party’s (SNP) finances. Sturgeon had lived under the duress of the investigation for nearly two years, referring to it as a ‘cloud’ that affected her personal and political life.

The announcement came just as her estranged husband, Peter Murrell, former SNP chief executive, was charged with embezzlement at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, where he entered no plea and was granted bail. Both Sturgeon and former SNP treasurer Colin Beattie were cleared of all accusations as police confirmed that they were no longer under investigation, allowing them to move forward from this prolonged ordeal.

Sturgeon emphasized that she believed she had done nothing wrong and expressed her satisfaction with the police’s conclusion of their inquiries. Beattie, sharing similar sentiments, remarked on the stress the investigations had caused for his family. First Minister John Swinney voiced his support for Sturgeon and Beattie, indicating that the investigation had been difficult for the SNP and highlighted the need for improved financial governance moving forward.

The investigation, termed Operation Branchform, focused on £660,000 worth of donations made to the SNP for independence initiatives, scrutinizing funds amidst accusations of financial mismanagement. The protracted police interest made headlines and had wider political implications, contributing to significant electoral losses for the SNP in recent events. Sturgeon announced her resignation as first minister in February 2023, with her husband resigning shortly after due to misleading the public regarding party membership statistics. Despite the tumultuous period, Sturgeon is determined to move on with her life, signaling a desire to leave the past behind.