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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
National
Keiran Fleming

Mixed reaction to Nicola Sturgeon resignation as Govanhill constituents have their say

Residents of Govanhill have voiced their opinion on their MSP's resignation as First Minister.

Nicola Sturgeon announced she will be stepping down from the job she described as a ' privilege' earlier this morning.

Those going about their day near to the SNP leader's office on Dixon Road have mixed views on her legacy.

READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon confirms resignation as Scotland's First Minister after more than eight years

Ashley Morrison, who was out with her god-daughter, believes Nicola Sturgeon's eight-year tenure has inspired many women across the country

She told Glasgow Live: "I was shocked because she has been so steady for so long as a leader but I can understand if she has had enough.

"She is very inspiring, even this wee one knows who Nicola Sturgeon.

"I just hope they can replace her with someone as good, if not better, if that exists. We need someone to continue her passion.

"She has completely smashed the glass ceiling and made women's rights more prevelent. She has inspired us both young and old."

However, not everyone agrees that Sturgeon's time in office has pushed Scotland in the right direction.

Karen Stewart, who lived near to the area, said: "It's the best thing ever.

"I think she is pushing towards younger people too much, I think she has forgotten about everyone else. Look at her constituency, I wouldn't come round here myself.

"I think she has just made a mess of the country."

During her time as a representative for the area Sturgeon has championed many local causes. She was also at the forefront of supporting many community projects well before she was the Scottish First Minister.

Fatima Uygun, from the Govanhill Baths Community Trust, believes her impact on Govanhill will be her true legacy.

She said: "We are very upset after the resignation of Nicola Sturgeon.

"We might not agree with the political situation of our current social problems, but when it came to anti-racism, when it came to standing up for normal people locally she was always there and supportive.

"From international Roma day right through to the Govanhill anti-racist festival, she was incredibly supportive. She was a great supporter of the campaign to reopen Govanhill baths and helped us identify funding, she came on that 22 year journey with us.

"On the day it closed she was on the picket line and later helped us secure money.

"Her legacy will also be standing up to racism locally whenever it reared its ugly head."

Some of those who have lived in the area for decades believe that Sturgeon forgot about the people who voted her into Holyrood.

Resident Neil McDonald said: "I was born and bred here in Govan and I've seen a lot of change here.

"I feel she has forgotten about us since she became First Minister, no doubt about it.

"This area always used to be labour because of the workers but that has changed over the years as well. People like her get in and they are only interested in herself ."

One local is adamant that Sturgeon made Scotland a big name in global politics and has ensured that the voice of the people has been heard by those across the world.

Graham Fife said: "I am very surprised and disappointed, I think she was a good politician.

"I think there has been eight years of stability but not spectacular growth. I think Scotland will miss her.

"I'm sure others will have a different opinion but right now we don't know who is going to replace her and whether they will be better or worse.

"I think she made the role of First Minister more than just a Scottish position."

Many of those who supported the SNP and Sturgeon are now concerned that there is no succession plan in place.

One resident is worried that there is no guarantee that her replacement will be the ideal candidate for Scotland.

Brian Gallagher said: "When Alex Salmond left Nicola Sturgeon was in the wings. Now she has left who is next?

"They are going to need someone quick because we need someone to make decisions. Things have been quite good in this country compared to down south.

"She has tried her best."

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