Scottish National Party (SNP) has faced multiple challenges over the years, including funding scandal and the departure of former leader Nicola Sturgeon last year.
On Monday, the party witnesses another. Humza Yousaf, Scotland’s first minister and Scottish National Party (SNP) leader, resigned.
Why the resignation?
Later this week, the leader was to face two votes of no confidence—one on himself and another on the party, which he was not expected to survive. The motions were tabled by Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader of Pakistani origin, and the Tories. 
Further, the British–Pakistani-Scottish minister and leader who quit his position within 13 months after taking it up was strongly criticised by its allied Green Party for terminating the SNP’s formal power-sharing cooperation partnership with the Greens in the hope that the SNP would rule as a minority government with their backing on some issues.
The former first minister ended relations last week due to disagreements over climate pledges.
Addressing the audience on his resignation, Yousaf said it’s “absolutely possible” he could have won by cutting a deal, but he showcased his unwillingness to trade his ‘values and principles’ just for power. He additionally was gratuitous for the position given to a person of colour, the first Muslim to head a major political party, and Scotland’s youngest elected leader. He was evidently emotional whilst his address.
I feel so blessed for having the opportunity so few are afforded — the chance to lead my country, and who could ask for a better country to lead than Scotland.
Thank you for all of the kind messages of love & support. I will always strive to serve Scotland in whatever way I can. pic.twitter.com/ZcfKydr2gE
— Humza Yousaf (@HumzaYousaf) April 29, 2024
The Scottish Parliament has 28 days to nominate a replacement; if not, then elections will be held.
Yousaf has asked the SNP to hold a leadership contest and announced to remain in post until a new leader is appointed. He will stay on as a backbencher, a politician without a government post.
