John Swinney becomes SNP leader and Scottish Prime Minister-in-waiting

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John Swinney promised a "new chapter" as he took over as leader of the SNP on Monday after his potential rivals withdrew from the leadership race.

The former Deputy Prime Minister was the only one to come forward to succeed Humza Yousaf, who is expected to officially resign this week.

Mr. Swinney will still face a confirmation vote at Holyrood, which will likely see him approved. as the candidate nominated by the Scottish Parliament to become the seventh First Minister.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Swinney paid tribute to the “grace and dignity” of Mr Yousaf, who , according to him, showed “moral leadership on the issue”. of Gaza.”

John Swinney made his first speech as new leader of the SNP in Glasgow (PA) on Monday

He said he was not motivated by personal ambition. but that he had presented himself as leader “out of a deep sense of duty” to his party and his country.

And, in a plea for party unity, Mr Swinney said: “ If he were elected prime minister, I would focus on the economy, employment, and the cost of living. This will be the NHS, our schools and our public services. He will tackle the climate crisis.

“Don’t let our disagreements take over. Join me as we open a new chapter. It's my job, it's our job, and I intend to get the job done. »

It comes just a week after Mr Yousaf announced he was stepping down as SNP leader and Scottish First Minister following his decision. Breaking his party's power-sharing deal with the Greens at Holyrood left him facing a vote of confidence.

Former leadership rival Kate Forbes was considered as Mr Swinney's most likely challenger, but ruled herself out last week.

In a tweet thread published on the social networking site X, Ms. F...