BREAKING: Humza Yousaf resigns as First Minister after 13 months
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Exactly one year and one month on from taking office as First Minister, Humza Yousaf resigned after it became clear his position had become politically untenable.
Speaking at a news conference at the First Minister’s official residence in Bute House, Edinburgh, Mr Yousaf said: “After spending the weekend reflecting on what is best for the government and country I lead, I have concluded that repairing our relationships across the political divide can only be done with someone else at the helm.
“I intend to stand down as Party Leader. I will continue as First Minister until my successor has been elected, particularly as the Parliament will be debating some incredibly important legislation in the coming days and weeks.
“I cannot tell you what an honour it is being the First Minister of the country I love, the country I am raising my family in, and the only country I will ever call home. I have had the honour of serving in Government for almost 12 years in a variety of roles.
“Although I am sad that my time as First Minister is ending, I am so grateful and blessed for having the opportunity so few are afforded – to lead my country, and who could ask for a better country to lead than Scotland.”
Mr Yousaf was forced out when he lost support across the Scottish Parliament and was facing two motions of no confidence.
The first submitted by Highland MSP Douglas Ross was very likely to pass unless Mr Yousaf could secure the support of one of two parties disenchanted with the SNP.
The first was Alba’s only MSP Ash Regan, a former SNP minister and leadership rival, but their demands, including an electoral pact, were too high for him.
The second was the former coalition party the Greens who seemed to be out for his blood – accusing him of “political cowardice” – and saying they lost trust in him.
Then over the weekend both the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats refused his offer of talks centred on the best way to proceed with a minority government.
Scottish Labour had called for an election and, like the other major parties, were calling for Mr Yousaf to step down.
More to follow.
