April 30, 2024
2 mins read

Humza Yousaf resigns as Scotland’s first minister

The SNP, advocating for Scottish independence, has faced challenges, including a funding scandal and the departure of former leader Nicola Sturgeon last year. Internally, debates have arisen regarding the party’s approach to policy, as it seeks to reconnect with voters…reports Asian Lite News

Humza Yousaf has stepped down from his roles as leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) and Scotland’s first minister, marking a significant development in Scottish politics.

Yousaf’s resignation follows the recent dissolution of the SNP’s coalition with the Scottish Greens, a decision that sparked two no-confidence motions from opposition parties, putting Yousaf’s leadership in jeopardy.

In a televised address, Yousaf stated, “I am not willing to trade my values and principles or do deals with whomever simply for retaining power.”

The SNP, advocating for Scottish independence, has faced challenges, including a funding scandal and the departure of former leader Nicola Sturgeon last year. Internally, debates have arisen regarding the party’s approach to policy, as it seeks to reconnect with voters.

Despite initially expressing confidence in his ability to survive a no-confidence vote, Yousaf’s prospects dimmed over time. His attempts to negotiate with other parties to strengthen his minority government faced uncertainty by Monday.

Yousaf, Scotland’s youngest elected leader and the first Muslim to head a major political party, admitted to underestimating the backlash following the termination of the power-sharing agreement with the Scottish Greens.

“I have concluded that repairing the relationship across the political divide can only be done with someone else at the helm,” Yousaf acknowledged, announcing his resignation as SNP leader.

Yousaf’s departure triggers the search for his successor and, consequently, a new first minister. The Scottish Parliament has 28 days to endorse any replacement. If a consensus cannot be reached, an election will be called.

During his resignation speech, Yousaf urged for the swift initiation of the leadership contest to identify his successor. He will continue serving as first minister until a new leader is appointed.

Born in Glasgow to Pakistani immigrants, Yousaf emerged as a skilled communicator, tasked with uniting the SNP amid internal divisions. Assuming leadership in March 2023 amidst waning support for Scottish independence, Yousaf faced an arduous tenure cut short after just a year.

“Politics can be a brutal business,” Yousaf reflected tearfully, acknowledging the challenges of his tenure. Despite the difficulties, he recognised the significance of his leadership, noting the parallel rise of Rishi Sunak, the UK’s South Asian Prime Minister.

“I could never have dreamt that one day, I would have the privilege of leading my country,” he said. “People who looked like me were not in positions of political influence, let alone leading governments, when I was younger.” (ANI)

ALSO READ-Scotland registers big win

Previous Story

‘Hamas must be removed from Gaza leadership’

Next Story

Chinese Ships ‘Harass’ Philippine Vessels

Latest from -Top News

Pakistan’s Shadow War in Balochistan

At least 50 killed by Pakistan-backed death squads in Balochistan in April, says HRCB — toll expected to rise in May….reports Asian Lite News The Human Rights Council of Balochistan (HRCB) reported

Russia, Ukraine Resume Talks

The upcoming talks follow a significant hiatus in diplomatic engagement between the two nations, which have been locked in a brutal conflict since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 Russia and

UN Pays Tribute to Indian Soldiers

Thursday was observed as the 77th UN Peacekeepers Day, honouring the work of 61,353 peacekeepers, of whom 5,375 hailed from India….reports Asian Lite News Brigadier Amitabh Jha and Havildar Sanjay Singh, who

Modi’s New Warfare Playbook

Modi has upended the old playbook and India and Pakistan are entering dangerous new territory where nuclear deterrence is no longer a guarantee against conventional conflict…writes Collins Chong Yew Keat The India-Pakistan
Go toTop