Humza Yousaf to stand down in 2026

Former first minister Humza Yousaf will stand down ahead of the next Holyrood election.

The SNP MSP said the "time was right" to leave frontline politics in 2026.

Elected in 2011, Yousaf entered government the following year as Europe minister serving under Alex Salmond.

He secured his first cabinet position as Nicola Sturgeon's justice secretary in 2018, then as health secretary following the 2021 election.

He became the first minister and leader of the SNP in 2023, seeing off competition from now deputy first minister Kate Forbes and Alba MSP Ash Regan.

His time at the top of government was short-lived, however, after his decision to scrap the Bute House Agreement with the Scottish Greens.

Facing a vote of no confidence, Yousaf resigned as first minister a little over a year into the job. 

He has sat as a backbencher since then.

Announcing his decision not to contest the 2026 election, Yousaf said: "The time is right for me to step down, step away from frontline politics, and make way for the next generation of members, and use my experience of being a government minister.

"I have a lot to contribute from the things I have learned about what to do and what not to do, and can use that experience to make a good contribution on the global stage."

First Minister John Swinney, who succeeded Yousaf as SNP leader, said he was "sorry" to hear the announcement.

Swinney added: "He has been a pioneer in Scottish politics. I value all he has contributed to 

the Scottish Government and the SNP, and look forward to his continued involvement. 

"I wish Humza, [wife] Nadia and their family much peace together."