Scottish first minister Humza Yousaf resigns as SNP leader amid political turmoil
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, Al Jazeera reported.
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, as reported by Al Jazeera.
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
