The New SNP Leader

He faces the task of uniting a party that’s dominated Scottish politics in recent years – one which has looked deeply divided after Nicola Sturgeon’s resignation.

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It is the beginning of a new era for Scottish politics and the SNP. Humza Yousaf succeeds Nicola Sturgeon as the party leader and Scotland’s first minister after narrowly defeating Kate Forbes – in a leadership contest that has exposed deep divisions within the SNP. The 37-year-old is the first Muslim to lead a major UK party and was widely assumed to be Ms Sturgeon’s preferred successor.

In his first speech as leader, Mr Yousaf said he would lead Scotland “in the interests of all its citizens”, and that his first priority would be to protect every Scot from the harm inflicted by the cost of living crisis. Unsurprisingly, a main focus of his speech was his intention to carry on fighting for Scottish independence; he said “the people of Scotland needed this more than ever before”.

But the challenges Mr Yousaf now faces are significant. For 5 Minutes On, the BBC’s Scotland Editor, James Cook, takes us through a big day in Scottish politics.

Image Credit: Reuters

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