SCOTTISH Tory leader Douglas Ross has said he is "glad" Nicola Sturgeon has stepped down from the role as First Minister.
The SNP leader made the shock announcement at a last-minute press conference on Wednesday morning, adding that her resignation “frees the SNP” on the issue of Scottish independence “to choose the path it believes to be the right one without worrying about the perceived implications for my leadership”.
Sturgeon also hinted that the "brutality" of life as a modern politician played part in her decision, but insisted "short-term challenges" were not to blame.
READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon quits as Scottish First Minister
The FM insisted she would not be leaving politics completely and would serve out the rest of the parliamentary term on the back benches.
And, while Scotland and the rest of the UK responded to the announcement, Ross appeared to gloat at the news.
In a statement following the Bute House press conference, he said: "Whatever our differences, it is right we recognise that political leadership is always demanding and takes its toll on a person and their family.
"I am glad Nicola Sturgeon has recognised this is the right time to go.
"However, at this time, we cannot ignore that she has presided over a decade of division and decay in Scotland."
Ross said that instead of "trying to unite the country" after the 2014 independence referendum, Sturgeon "refused to accept the result".
"Her entire tenure as First Minister has been characterised by relentless agitating for another vote on separation – governing in her party’s interests, rather than Scotland’s," he said.
“As a result, Scotland has been in a state of constitutional paralysis ever since – divided and unable to move on from the Groundhog Day of 2014 and its toxic legacy, despite the wish of the majority of Scots to do just that.
READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon: My resignation will boost Scottish independence
“The SNP Government now needs to use this opportunity to focus on the Scottish people’s real priorities, especially the cost-of-living crisis, supporting our NHS and rebuilding our public services.”
SNP President Mike Russell blasted Ross's comments. He told The National: “It is a typical graceless, bitter and nasty response from someone who is graceless, bitter and nasty.
"He proves yet again that he and his party are unfit for office, something that the people of Scotland have known since 1955, which was the last time the Tories actually won an election in this country.”
Elsewhere, Scottish LibDem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said that Sturgeon's talent had "undoubtedly shaped Scottish political life" and thanked her for her service.
"Today is not a day for political attacks. I wish her well for everything that comes next," he said.
“It is to Nicola Sturgeon’s credit that she has been open about the pressures and stresses that leadership has involved. Everyone will recognise how hard it will have been particularly to steer the country during the pandemic and the weight of those decisions.
“Scotland needs leadership that will focus on what really matters because every corner of our NHS is in crisis, the cost of living is punishing, islanders still need new ferries and education deserves to be a top priority.
“Scottish Liberal Democrats will work hard to move the debate on from the divisions of the past because people can’t wait for years behind yet more arguments about independence. Scotland needs new hope, right now.”
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said that Nicola Sturgeon should be praised for her achievements, particularly during the pandemic.
He said: "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.
READ MORE: Who will replace Nicola Sturgeon as First Minister
"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."
It comes as Rishi Sunak, Ruth Davidson and fellow Unionist politicians reacted to the news.
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