Humza Yousaf has announced he is stepping down as first minister and SNP leader, little more than a year since he was elected, Ednews reports via The Guardian.
Yousaf told a press conference at Bute House, his official residence, on Monday he would remain in post until his successor was elected to ensure a “smooth and orderly transition”.
He said: “After spending the weekend reflecting on what is best for my party, for the government and for the country I lead, I’ve concluded that repairing our relationship across the political divide can only be done with someone else at the helm. I have therefore informed the SNP’s national secretary of my intention to stand down as party leader.”
Appearing to fight back tears, he paid tribute to his family, saying: “I am in absolute debt to my wonderful wife, my beautiful children and my wider family for putting up with me over the years. I’m afraid you will be seeing a lot more of me from now. You are truly everything to me.”
