In a surprising development, Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf announced his resignation just before the scheduled vote of no confidence. The departure of Mr. Humza Yousaf represents the latest challenge in a series of troubles for the Scottish National Party (SNP), which is currently under police investigation for financial issues.
His successor will shoulder the responsibility of leading the SNP through the upcoming general elections, where the opposition Labour Party hopes to seize power in the House of Commons from the ruling Conservative Party by capturing a slew of SNP seats.
Yousaf’s resignation comes less than a year into his tenure as Scotland’s youngest First Minister, the first from an ethnic minority in Scotland, and the first Muslim leader of a major party in the UK.
Coalition Fallout
Last week, Yousaf terminated a power-sharing agreement with the Scottish Greens in a bid to reset leadership roles ahead of a minority government in Scotland. With SNP holding 63 seats in the Scottish legislature, two short of a majority, Yousaf’s move stirred opposition within his own party.
Following the breakdown of the power-sharing alliance, the Scottish Conservatives tabled a motion of no confidence against the First Minister, while the Labour Party called for a vote of no confidence in the government.
Yousaf will need to persuade at least one opposition member to vote in his favor to survive the confidence vote. However, members of the Green Party, SNP’s coalition partners, staunchly oppose his leadership. The risk of failure in the no-confidence vote forces Yousaf’s hand towards resignation.
The Race for Succession
Candidates vying to succeed Yousaf include Kate Forbes, the runner-up in last year’s SNP leadership race; John Swinney, a former Deputy First Minister; and Neil Gray, an ally of Yousaf.
Mr. Humza Yousaf’s Final Remarks
On April 29, He said: “I feel so blessed for having the opportunity so few are afforded — the chance to lead my country, and who could ask for a better country to lead than Scotland.
Thank you for all of the kind messages of love and support. I will always strive to serve Scotland in whatever way I can.”
