Scotland’s First Minister position has been left vacant following the resignation of Humza Yousaf. The Scottish National Party (SNP) has appointed John Swinney as its new leader and Scotland’s First Minister. Swinney, a seasoned SNP politician, has no challengers for the role. However, the SNP does not have enough votes to secure Swinney’s election, with only 63 representatives out of 129 in parliament.
Swinney previously led the party from 2000 to 2004 when it was in opposition. Recently, the SNP’s support has been declining due to various factors such as former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s party funding scandal and a decrease in support for Scottish independence. The party has faced criticism for prioritizing independence over other issues such as the cost of living and health services.
In the Scottish parliament, decision-making power is limited in areas such as health, education, transport, and the environment since these issues are determined by country-wide British government decisions on defense and foreign policy. Yousaf resigned before a confidence vote he was likely to lose due to displeasing government partners and other parties. Despite facing challenges, Swinney will now lead the SNP and serve as First Minister.