Joanna Cherry, a former MP of the Scottish National Party (SNP), has called for an independent inquiry into the embezzlement of over £400,000 by the party's former chief executive, Peter Murrell. Cherry criticized former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon for her 'remarkable lack of curiosity' regarding financial mismanagement within the party. Sturgeon, who was arrested but faced no charges, claimed she had no knowledge of Murrell's actions, which included purchasing luxury items and a motorhome with party funds. Cherry highlighted that concerns about the misuse of a ring-fenced fund for a second independence referendum were raised as early as 2019. She expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and accountability, stating that those who questioned the finances were treated as traitors. SNP leader John Swinney admitted that the party had been 'badly let down' by Murrell and acknowledged the 'whole-scale deception' involved. The scandal has prompted broader discussions about governance and financial oversight within the SNP.