Nicola Sturgeon said the poster was a "light-hearted"

The nationalists used a kilted image of Jack McConnell on a poster with the headline "Joke McConnell".

SNP Holyrood leader Nicola Sturgeon unveiled the poster and said she would lead an effective opposition which would stand up for Scottish interests.

She denied the poster was tantamount to a personal attack.

Ms Sturgeon said: "It's a bit of light-hearted illustration of what we are doing today, which is the serious matter of setting out our priorities for the year ahead.

"This is a big year for Scotland and a year in which I believe the Scottish Parliament has to prove itself."

The SNP has promised to:

• Continue to challenge the current administration over its handling of the NHS

• Advance the case for Scottish independence

• Stand up for Scottish interests.

At the launch in Edinburgh, Ms Sturgeon raised the issue of the controversy surrounding Mr McConnell and his friendship with broadcaster Kirsty Wark.

She said: "As a new parliamentary session gets under way, the first minister is embroiled in a needless controversy over his refusal to declare hospitality from a leading BBC journalist.

"But even worse than the poor judgement that has been a feature of his term in office, has been his inability to set out a clear and compelling vision for Scotland and a firm sense of direction for the parliament."

The SNP said that in 2005 it would continue to campaign against the amalgamation of Scotland's regiments and oppose ID cards.

Meanwhile, Labour MSPs have given their full backing to Mr McConnell in the continuing controversy over his Hogmanay holiday with Kirsty Wark.

Mr McConnell refused to answer questions from reporters on the subject while launching the latest phase of the Fresh Talent initiative in Glasgow on Tuesday.