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Jeane Freeman, SNP politician and Covid response leader, profiled

Having dedicated her life to public service, the ex-SNP politician took on the health portfolio on the cusp of the worldwide pandemic.

The legacy of Jeane Freeman, who passed away at the age of 72, will be forever tied to the Covid-19 pandemic of 2020, during which she played a crucial role in guiding the Scottish government's response alongside then First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

Jeane Freeman, a woman in her 60s with shoulder length dark brown hair, is wearing an electric blue jacket and is sitting talking against a black background. — Jeane Freeman was Scotland's health secretary during the Covid pandemic

Freeman's tenure as cabinet secretary for health, a position she assumed in 2018, was marked by unprecedented challenges, despite having only entered the Scottish Parliament in 2016 as a member for the Ayrshire seat of Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley.

The health department, notorious for its complexity and vast budget, poses significant scrutiny and pressure on its leaders, making it one of the most demanding roles in government.

Unfortunately, Freeman's time in office coincided with the pandemic and ongoing concerns surrounding the safety of two newly built Scottish hospitals, which added to the existing challenges she faced.

Although her time in office was dominated by the pandemic, Freeman's work built upon decades of experience in politics and public service, providing a foundation for her leadership.

Freeman's entry into the Scottish Parliament in 2016, at the age of 62, marked a significant milestone in her career, as she had already established herself as a prominent figure in Scottish politics.

Her transition into political office was a natural progression of her personal and professional journey, which had been shaped by her experiences and values.

Initially a nurse and member of the Communist Party, Freeman later joined the Labour Party in the 1980s and founded Apex Scotland, a charity focused on offender rehabilitation, for which she was awarded an OBE in 1996.

Prior to her election to the Scottish Parliament, Freeman had run unsuccessfully as a Labour candidate in local council elections and was one of several high-profile women who were not selected to stand in the first Scottish Parliament election in 1999.

Following this, Freeman was appointed to a senior role in the civil service, where she worked closely with ministers in the early days of the Scottish Parliament.

In 2001, she became a special advisor to First Minister Jack McConnell, a position that granted her significant influence within the Scottish executive.

During her time as a special advisor, Freeman developed a reputation for her ability to drive policy and implementation across various departments, with one of her notable achievements being the NHS takeover of the Golden Jubilee Hospital.

After leaving her role as special advisor in 2005, Freeman established a public affairs consultancy and served on the boards of several public bodies.

This led to accusations of a "Labour mafia" and earned her the nickname "quango queen" from some critics and sections of the media, although some of these critics would later become her colleagues.

However, her experience working under a Labour first minister had a profound impact on Freeman, as she began to question the limitations of the devolved settlement and eventually came to support Scottish independence.

Malcolm Wright, a man in a dark suit; Jeane Freeman, a woman in a black and white checked coat and Nicola Sturgeon, a woman in an electric blue trouser suit, stand in a row applauding outside a grey stone building (St Andrew's House). — Jeane Freeman (centre) joined Malcolm Wright of NHS Scotland and the First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, in applauding NHS workers during the pandemic

Over the course of the next decade, Freeman's perspective on independence evolved, and she became an advocate for this cause, driven by her conviction that it was essential for addressing Scotland's challenges.

In 2014, Freeman co-founded Women for Independence, a group that played a significant role in the independence referendum, reflecting both her long-standing commitment to feminism and her desire to amplify women's voices in the political debate.

This marked a significant turning point in her career, as she later joined the SNP and was selected to stand as a candidate in her native Ayrshire ahead of the 2016 election, under the leadership of Nicola Sturgeon.

Freeman spent her entire tenure at Holyrood in government, first as minister for social security and later, in 2018, as cabinet secretary for health.

In an interview with Holyrood magazine, Freeman acknowledged the immense responsibility that came with her role, stating that the true pressure lay in the fact that she was dealing with people's lives and well-being.

She emphasized that the gravity of this responsibility was not lost on her, recognizing that the decisions she made had a direct impact on individuals and families.

The Covid-19 pandemic, which struck in 2020, presented unprecedented challenges for governments worldwide, as they struggled to contain the spread of the virus, implement lockdown measures, and mitigate the economic impact.

Catherine Calderwood, in black jacket over a red shirt, is sitting at a desk talking. Jeane Freeman, in dark blue jacket with a white shirt, is sitting to her right watching her speak. Freeman is wearing spectacles with thick black plastic frames. — During the pandemic, Freeman (right) appeared in media briefings with chief medical officer Catherine Calderwood as well as Nicola Sturgeon

Throughout this period, Freeman stood alongside Nicola Sturgeon in press conferences, providing updates and guidance to the public, and was present at the launch of the vaccine rollout.

However, the decision to discharge elderly hospital patients to care homes without requiring a negative test result during the early stages of the pandemic would later become a subject of controversy and scrutiny for Freeman.

The subsequent high mortality rates in care homes, where the virus spread rapidly among vulnerable residents, led to a change in guidance on testing, but not before significant harm had been done.

In a 2025 interview with the BBC, Freeman acknowledged the anger and grief of those who had lost loved ones and recognized that the policy had contributed to the deaths, while also defending the decisions made at the time as the best possible under the circumstances.

As health secretary, Freeman had initially aimed to address the issue of waiting times, but the pandemic ultimately derailed this effort.

Another controversy that marred her tenure was the concern over deaths at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow, which were potentially linked to problems with the hospital's ventilation and water systems, an issue that had been inherited from Sturgeon's time in the health department.

In response to allegations of a cover-up and repeated calls for her resignation, Freeman established a public inquiry in 2019 to investigate the matter.

In January 2026, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde acknowledged that, on the balance of probabilities, the hospital environment, particularly the water system, had caused some infections, a conclusion that came more than five years after the inquiry was launched.

Freeman's prompt action in 2019, when she postponed the opening of the new Sick Children's Hospital in Edinburgh due to concerns over its ventilation system, potentially prevented a similar crisis from unfolding.

Jeane Freeman, in electric blue jacket and black blouse, is walking purposefully from a car, right to left. She is wearing glasses and looks very serious. A white car can be seen in the background. — Giving evidence to the UK Covid Inquiry in 2024

Although this decision resulted in a two-year delay and additional costs of £40m, it ultimately ensured the safety of patients and staff, as the hospital was able to open without the same issues that had plagued the Glasgow hospital.

The legacy of the pandemic, the hospital infections, and the subsequent public inquiries continued to cast a shadow over Freeman's life after she left office, with her being called to give evidence and speak publicly about her decisions and regrets.

During this time, Freeman also began volunteering at the Beatson cancer unit in Glasgow, where she would take the tea trolley around the wards, a task that brought her joy and fulfillment, according to her partner.

The ongoing hospitals inquiry, which was still a source of controversy at the time of Freeman's death, will ultimately provide a conclusion on these matters.

Freeman was notable for her candor and willingness to acknowledge the mistakes made by her government, as well as the immense pressure they faced, demonstrating a level of introspection and accountability rare in politics.

In an interview with LBC radio, discussing the UK Covid inquiry's findings, Freeman reflected on the complexity of the decisions made during the pandemic, stating that they were never straightforward choices between right and wrong.

She emphasized that she had never claimed to have made perfect decisions, but rather had done her best with the information available at the time.

Freeman's approach was characterized by a commitment to transparency and a willingness to learn from mistakes, as she consistently maintained that she had made the best decisions possible given the circumstances.

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Aberdeen to unveil new manager soon with Docherty set to take assistant role

Aberdeen has bolstered its interim management team with the return of Tony Docherty, who previously served as an assistant manager, to support Peter Leven, amid anticipation of a permanent appointment announcement that sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel had indicated would be made “imminently”.

Ross County parted ways with Tony Docherty in December, and he has now taken on a new role.

Aberdeen have brought in former assistant manager Tony Docherty to support Peter Leven's interim management team, despite sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel indicating that a permanent appointment was imminent.

Docherty's return to Aberdeen comes just a week after Eirik Horneland, a former coach of Rosenborg, Brann, and Saint-Etienne, emerged as a top contender to succeed Jimmy Thelin, who was sacked earlier.

As Aberdeen delays making a full-time appointment, speculation surrounding Eirik Horneland's availability has arisen, with reports suggesting the 50-year-old Norwegian may not be able to take on the role until summer.

Since Jimmy Thelin's dismissal on January 4, Lutz Pfannenstiel has been leading the search for a replacement, and he confirmed that Tony Docherty would be joining the team to assist Peter Leven during the interim period.

Dundee Utd are facing a challenging schedule, with four matches in 14 days set to take place on a weather-affected pitch.

According to Stavrum, Eirik Horneland's coaching style, characterized by intensity, would be a good fit for Aberdeen.

Tony Docherty initially joined Aberdeen in 2013 as part of Derek McInnes' management team and spent eight years at the club.

Before his stint at Aberdeen, Docherty served as McInnes' assistant at Kilmarnock and later managed Dundee and Ross County, but his time at Ross County ended in December when he was let go with the team at the bottom of the Championship.

Lutz Pfannenstiel praised Tony Docherty's experience, stating that he has a deep understanding of the club and will be a valuable asset during the transition period.

Pfannenstiel highlighted Docherty's extensive knowledge of the Scottish Premiership, gained through his experience as both a coach and manager, which will be beneficial to the team in the short term.

The club's managerial search is nearing its conclusion, and an announcement regarding the new head coach is expected soon, according to Pfannenstiel.

Peter Leven, who is serving as caretaker manager for the third time, expressed his enthusiasm for Tony Docherty's appointment.

Leven welcomed Docherty's return, stating that his experience will be a significant boost to the team, particularly during the upcoming matches.

Leven noted that Docherty was eager to join the team and that his presence will provide valuable support during both training sessions and matches.

Eirik Horneland left his position at Saint-Etienne in early February, at which point his team was fourth in France's second tier.

If Aberdeen decides to wait until summer for Horneland to take over, it will be similar to the six-month delay that occurred when Jimmy Thelin joined the club from Elfsborg in the summer of 2024.

For the latest news, analysis, and fan perspectives on Aberdeen, visit our dedicated page.

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Peter Murrell faces allegations of misusing £459,000 in funds over 12 years

Allegations have been made that he bought various items, such as luxury goods, jewellery, cosmetics, two cars and a motorhome, in an improper manner.

Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party, is facing allegations of embezzling £459,000 from the party over a 12-year period.

Peter Murrell looking off to his right while sitting in a room. He is wearing a black suit, white shirt and dark coloured tie. — Peter Murrell is due to appear in court next Friday for a preliminary hearing

An indictment document obtained by BBC News outlines the case against Murrell, who is the estranged husband of former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

The alleged embezzlement is said to have occurred between August 2010 and January 2023, according to the indictment.

It is claimed that Murrell used party funds to purchase luxury items, including jewellery, cosmetics, and vehicles, such as two cars and a motorhome.

The Scottish Sun was the first to report on the details of the indictment.

A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled to take place at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday, 20 February, where Murrell is expected to appear.

During his initial court appearance at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Murrell made no plea and was subsequently granted bail.

Murrell's arrest in 2023 was part of Operation Branchform, a police investigation into the SNP's funding and finances, which led to him being charged with embezzlement in April 2024.

A police van and a police officer outside Murrell's home in April 2023. — Murrell was arrested in 2023 as part of a probe into the SNP's finances

Although Sturgeon was questioned by police as part of the investigation, she is no longer considered a suspect.

BBC News has obtained a copy of the indictment against Murrell ahead of his upcoming court appearance.

It is worth noting that the indictment is subject to change until the case is heard in court and may be amended throughout the judicial process.

The indictment alleges that Murrell purchased a £124,550 motorhome for personal use and created false documents to justify the expense as a legitimate party expenditure.

Murrell is also accused of using £57,500 of party funds to buy a Jaguar I-PACE car in 2019, and falsifying an invoice to conceal the true nature of the purchase.

Furthermore, it is alleged that when the Jaguar was sold in 2021, Murrell deposited more than £47,000 into his personal bank account.

The indictment also claims that Murrell embezzled £16,489 from the SNP to partially fund the purchase of a Volkswagen Golf in 2016.

A list of over 80 retailers is included in the indictment, where Murrell allegedly made purchases totalling more than £159,000 between 2014 and 2022, using party credit or charge cards for personal expenses.

The retailers named in the indictment include Harrods, the Royal Mint, John Lewis, Homebase, and Argos, among others.

It is alleged that Murrell used SNP credit or charge cards to make these purchases and then inserted false or inaccurate accounting codes and descriptions into the party's accounting systems.

The indictment also accuses Murrell of making purchases worth over £81,600 through Amazon using the same method.

Murrell served as the SNP's chief executive for 22 years before his departure.

Murrell and Sturgeon were married in 2010, but announced their separation in January 2025, after being together for many years.

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Bangladesh Nationalist Party Wins Landslide in Country’s First Poll Since Youth-Led Protests

The public is looking forward to a shift back to democratic governance, following a 15-year period of authoritarian leadership by Sheikh Hasina.

In a significant shift in the country's political landscape, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has achieved a decisive majority in parliament, 18 months after widespread protests led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, the country's longest-serving prime minister.

Supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) show a victory sign in front of a banner with Tarique Rahman’s photo, as the results project BNP's victory in the 13th general election, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, February 13, 2026. REUTERS/Mohammad Ponir Hossain — Tarique Rahman has been out of the country for 17 years. He has promised democracy will be restored

The BNP secured over two-thirds of the seats in the recent general election, with the Jamaat party, the main Islamist party in the country, coming in second; meanwhile, the Awami League, led by Hasina, was not allowed to participate in the election.

As the BNP's leader, Tarique Rahman is poised to become the next prime minister, facing significant challenges in revitalizing the economy and restoring democratic principles after 15 years of authoritarian rule under Hasina's leadership.

In a concurrent referendum, voters also expressed support for comprehensive democratic reforms, which are expected to shape the country's future.

Following Friday prayers in Dhaka, Tarique Rahman expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating, "I am grateful for the love you have shown me"; his party has chosen not to hold a victory procession.

Rahman, who was elected to parliament for the first time, was among the 212 successful BNP candidates; according to the Election Commission, voter turnout was 59.44%.

This marks a significant turnaround for Rahman, who spent 17 years in self-imposed exile in London before taking over as party leader after his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, passed away in December.

During his campaign, Rahman pledged to restore democratic principles and practices in the country.

The new government will need to address pressing issues, including economic revitalization, controlling rising food prices, and creating employment opportunities for the country's large youth population.

Rebuilding relations with neighboring India is also a key priority for the incoming government.

In the aftermath of his victory, Rahman received a congratulatory call from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who acknowledged his "remarkable victory".

Modi took to social media to reaffirm India's commitment to promoting peace, progress, and prosperity in both countries, citing their deep historical and cultural ties.

Although the BNP has pledged to bring about change, the party has faced criticism in the past for corruption and alleged human rights abuses during its previous tenure in government in the early 2000s.

The recent election represents a pivotal moment for the country, with one of the two main parties achieving a significant victory, presenting both opportunities and risks.

Proposed constitutional reforms include introducing term limits for the prime minister, establishing a directly elected upper house of parliament, strengthening presidential powers, and increasing judicial independence.

The reforms also aim to increase female representation in parliament, an area where significant progress is still needed, as evidenced by the limited number of successful female candidates in the recent election.

As the newly elected leader, Tarique Rahman will face intense scrutiny as he works to deliver on his promises to a predominantly young electorate eager for change, many of whom participated in the student-led protests that ultimately led to Hasina's removal and paved the way for the February 12 election.