Scotland’s ruling SNP picks Humza Yousaf to succeed Sturgeon

BREAKBREAK,

The new party leader will be confirmed as Prime Minister by Scottish lawmakers on Tuesday.

Scotland’s governing party has elected Humza Yousaf as its new leader after a blood-curdling five-week battle that exposed deep rifts within the pro-independence movement.

Yousaf will lead the Scottish National Party in succession to Prime Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who unexpectedly resigned last month after eight years as leader of the party and Scotland’s semi-autonomous government.

The 37-year-old Scotsman of Pakistani descent was the favorite to win the leadership race. He was most recently the health secretary in charge of the crisis-hit National Health Service (NHS) during the coronavirus pandemic.

“From Punjab to our parliament, this is a journey for our generations,” he said in an impassioned victory speech, referring to his South Asian heritage.

Yousaf also said he has a “passion” for Scottish independence.

“Use our devolved powers to the maximum to address today’s challenges,” he said.

“I will make sure that our drive for independence is in fifth gear. The people of Scotland need independence now more than ever,” he added.

This is a breaking news story. More details to follow.