Humza Yousaf's first big speech as First Minister has been "torpedoed" by the latest development in a police investigation into SNP finances, opposition parties have said.
The party's new leader is due to address MSPs at the Scottish Parliament today on his government's legislative priorities for the months ahead.
Holyrood reopened for business today following a two-week long recess which saw the political world rocked by the arrest and subsequent release without charge of Peter Murrell, the husband of Nicola Sturgeon.
Police Scotland has now arrested Colin Beattie, the SNP national treasurer and a serving MSP, in connection with Operation Branchform.
Officers launched the investigation in 2021 after several complaints were made to the constabulary about an SNP fundraising drive linked to its campaign for independence.
The timing of Beattie's arrest is a huge blow for Yousaf as he attempts to establish himself as First Minister following Sturgeon's shock resignation in February.
Alex Cole-Hamilton, Scottish Lib Dem leader, said: “Today, Humza Yousaf was supposed to set out his government's priorities, but the complete mess within his party has torpedoed that relaunch.
“This is a government in total paralysis, just at a time when people across the country are struggling to pay the bills, waiting an age for NHS treatment, being left without lifeline ferries and seeing sewage pour into their rivers. Their priorities are not the priorities of this dysfunctional SNP Government.
“Change is coming and Scottish Liberal Democrats will be part of what’s next.”
Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie said: “This is yet another deeply concerning development and the Police Scotland investigation must be allowed to proceed without interference.
“For too long, a culture of secrecy and cover-up has been allowed to fester at the heart of the SNP.
"And while the investigation spreads, the SNP is still refusing to take the basic step of suspending MSPs who are the subject of police inquiries.
"Humza Yousaf’s inaction raises questions - is his priority the cover up to protect the SNP or the people of Scotland?"
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