Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf announced his resignation on Monday after failing to secure enough votes in cross-party support.
Yousaf, aged 39, also stated his intention to step down as leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP), but he will remain in office until his successor is chosen.
Yousaf’s Party is in Disarray
Yousaf faced impending votes of no confidence, which he failed to rally enough support to survive.
Despite expressing confidence earlier this month in surviving a no-confidence vote, Yousaf’s chance of survival became uncertain by Monday.
Apart from the no-confidence vote, the party has faced police investigation into party finances, leading to arrests of several members.
After just over a year in office, succeeding Nicola Sturgeon, Yousaf acknowledged it was time for new leadership in Scotland’s devolved government.
Yousaf’s resignation initiates a search for his successor within the SNP and consequently a new first minister.
The Scottish Parliament has 28 days to endorse any replacement. If no consensus is reached, an election will be triggered.
