John Swinney, a veteran of the Scottish National Party (SNP), is now the leading candidate to take over as Scotland’s next leader. This comes after a potential opponent withdrew from the race and threw their support behind Swinney.
Following the resignation of Humza Yousaf as party chief and Scotland’s first minister on Monday, the SNP is in search of a new leader.
The recent turmoil within the SNP, caused by political missteps and a funding scandal, has given the British Labour Party hope of making gains in Scotland as they aim to win UK parliamentary elections this year.
Kate Forbes, who previously lost a leadership contest to Yousaf, announced that she will not be seeking the nomination for SNP leader and expressed her support for Swinney, stating they share a common purpose.
Other party members have until Monday to announce their candidacy. If more candidates come forward, a ballot will be held among SNP members from May 13 to 27.
The SNP is determined to reclaim its former dominant position in Scotland and reignite the push for an independence referendum.
‘Modern, diverse, dynamic Scotland’
Swinney is seen as a steady leader who can bring stability to the SNP and mend its relationship with former coalition partners, the Green Party.
After stepping down from government when Yousaf took office last year, Swinney is now answering the call to return and help revitalize his party.
He aims to continue the work of the SNP government in creating a modern, diverse, and dynamic Scotland.
Original from www.aljazeera.com