SNP Chief Minister Nicola Sturgeon Steps Down, Leaving Behind Coalition Scandal and Controversial Decision by Replacement Humza Yousaf

In March 2023, Nicola Sturgeon stepped down as Chief Minister of Scotland, leaving behind a party finances scandal and causing division within the SNP. Her replacement, Humza Yousaf, has recently made a controversial decision by unilaterally breaking the government coalition between the SNP and Green Party.

The coalition was formed after the 2021 regional elections in order to build a more solid pact to launch a new sovereignty project focused on independence from the UK. However, tensions arose within the party over compromises made with the Green Party, particularly regarding environmental policies and support for the Gender Self-Determination Act.

Yousaf’s decision to break the coalition reflects his awareness that the Labor Party may regain leadership in Scotland, potentially jeopardizing the SNP’s independence agenda. The Scottish Conservative Party announced a motion of no confidence against Yousaf, which will be debated in the coming week. The Green Party, after an urgent meeting, announced its support for the motion.

If Yousaf is removed from power due to this motion of no confidence passing, his fate will likely be determined by a casting vote from the president of autonomous Parliament. Despite this uncertainty surrounding his leadership, Yousaf remains confident that he can continue governing as a minority. His decision to break the coalition reflects his attempt to consolidate internal unity within SNP and maintain stability in government.