Nicola Sturgeon MSP has announced that she will run for to become the leader of the Scottish National Party.
The party's deputy leader - who previously led the SNP from 2004 until 2007 - confirmed that she will stand to replace Alex Salmond as leader of the party.
Mr Salmond announced he would step down as SNP leader last week , following the Yes campaign's defeat in the Scottish Independence referendum.
Sturgeon has been a strong proponent of equal marriage in Scotland, leading the party's commitment to introduce it in 2012 when she said: "We are committed to a Scotland that is fair and equal and that is why we intend to proceed with plans to allow same-sex marriage and religious ceremonies for civil partnerships - we believe that this is the right thing to do."
Announcing her candidacy, she said: "To be the first minister of my country, especially at this exciting and optimistic time, would be both a great honour - without doubt, the greatest honour - and an immense responsibility.
"I am putting myself forward for two simple reasons: I want to serve my party and my country. And I believe I am the best person for the job.
"I also hope that my candidacy, should it succeed, will send a strong message to every girl and young woman in Scotland - no matter your background or what you want to achieve in life, in Scotland in 2014 there is no glass ceiling on ambition."
Queer News. Straight Up.
The LGBTQ+ stories you don't want to miss, delivered to your inbox daily.