Stephen Flynn has said party infighting over his decision to stand at the 2026 Scottish Parliament election has been unpleasant.
The SNP Westminster leader currently represents the constituency of Aberdeen South in the House of Commons, but last week announced his intentions to stand for the Aberdeen South and North Kincardine seat at the 2026 Holyrood election.
The North Kincardine seat is currently held by the SNP's Audrey Nicoll.
Mr Flynn confirmed his aim to hold his Westminster seat until the next general election, but would not accept two salaries.
However, his announcement in the Press and Journal on Tuesday has caused backlash within the SNP.
Flynn told BBC Scotland's The Sunday Show: "None of this is particularly edifying for anyone.
"I don't want to be doing this, I don't want to be having these discussions on television, trying to defend myself.
"But that's the reality of politics sometimes - it's not pleasant.
"I'm not going to shy away, I'm not going to be hounded out from standing for what I believe in."