Why did Scotland's first minister Hamza Yousaf resign?

Scotland’s leader, Humza Yousaf, stepped down on Monday, creating an opportunity for the UK opposition Labour Party to potentially regain traction in its former Scottish strongholds ahead of an anticipated national election later this year.

Yousaf cited the fallout from his decision to terminate a coalition agreement with Scotland’s Greens as the reason for his resignation from the pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP) and as the first minister of Scotland’s devolved government.

Despite attempting to shore up support, he faced an impending vote of no confidence which he did not have enough backing to withstand. Having assumed leadership just over a year ago, succeeding Nicola Sturgeon, Yousaf acknowledged underestimating the repercussions of his actions and expressed a belief that a fresh perspective was necessary for Scotland’s leadership.

He emphasized that maintaining integrity was more important to him than clinging to power, rejecting the notion of compromising his principles.

Who is Humza Yousaf?

Humza Yousaf, who became Scotland’s first Muslim head of government in modern Western Europe when he took office in March 2023, resigned shortly after celebrating his 39th birthday and approximately a year after his appointment as Scotland’s first minister.

Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf speaks during a press conference at Bute House — Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf speaks during a press conference at Bute House, his official residence where he said he will resign as SNP leader and Scotland’s First Minister, avoiding having to face a no-confidence vote in his leadership, in Edinburgh, Britain, April 29, 2024. Andrew Milligan/Pool via REUTERS

Yousaf’s political ascent within the SNP began in 2011 when he was elected as a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP). Over the years, he assumed various ministerial roles, including minister for Europe and international development, transportation secretary, justice secretary, and health secretary.

When Nicola Sturgeon announced her departure from the first minister position, Yousaf was perceived as the natural successor. His appointment marked a historic moment as he became the first ethnic minority leader of a devolved government and the first Muslim to helm a major UK political party.