In a dramatic turn of events, Scotland’s First Minister, Humza Yousaf has reportedly stepped down from his position, rather than confronting the looming no-confidence vote against him, according to Sky News sources on Monday.
The 39-year-old leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP), who assumed office in March 2023, found himself in the eye of a political storm following his decision to withdraw from a coalition agreement, opting instead to govern with a minority administration.
Yousaf’s decision to sack the Scottish Greens, who subsequently joined the opposition ranks, has further escalated tensions, leading to two impending no-confidence votes at Holyrood.
Despite initially expressing confidence in his ability to weather the storm, Yousaf appears to be facing mounting pressure from within his own party, with some senior figures suggesting his resignation may be inevitable.
Speculation intensified as talks between the SNP and the Alba party, led by Yousaf’s rival Alex Salmond, were underway. The sole Alba Member of the Scottish Parliament, Ash Regan, who defected from the SNP last October, was poised to cast the deciding vote in the upcoming motion.
While discussions between the parties were reportedly centered on potential concessions, dissent within the SNP ranks emerged, with concerns voiced over the potential ramifications of aligning with Alba.
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