Scottish National Party (SNP) veteran John Swinney has been confirmed as the party’s new leader, succeeding Humza Yousaf as Scotland’s first minister, Reuters reports.
Swinney, who joined the party in 1979, emerged as the sole contender in the leadership race. Former finance minister Kate Forbes, initially seen as a potential challenger, ruled herself out, citing a shared “common purpose” with Swinney. Party activist Graeme McCormick considered challenging Swinney but ultimately decided not to proceed. Swinney took to social media to express his deep honor at being elected as the party’s leader, vowing to dedicate himself fully to serving both his party and his country.
The leadership transition follows the resignation of Humza Yousaf, who made history as the first Muslim to lead a democratic Western European nation. Yousaf stepped down after his decision to terminate a coalition with the Green Party backfired.
