I’d like to express my sincere appreciation to the First Minister after he announced he was to step down.

Throughout his tenure, Humza Yousaf has demonstrated unwavering dedication to Scotland and has made significant progress in addressing its needs.

The First Minister, on a recent visit to Prestwick, showed his commitment to engage with communities across Scotland to find out what matters to them.

He has had a very difficult and challenging time as First Minister, as we recovered from the pandemic, dealt with the fall-out of Brexit and mitigated against the cost-of-living crisis. However, he has done this with a cool head and the best interests of Scotland at the heart of his policies.

Under Humza Yousaf’s guidance, the SNP has tackled inequalities, implemented a fairer tax system, and lifted children out of poverty amidst challenging economic conditions.  

The First Minister renewed his commitment to a council tax freeze with Scottish Government funding for local authorities, ensuring stability during the cost-of-living crisis.

Again, to mitigate the cost-of-living crisis, the First Minister announced additional support to those in need with increased funding of the Fuel Insecurity Fund to £30m. This fund was aimed to help Scots during high energy bills.

Humza Yousaf has shown his unwavering support for the WASPI women, who have been affected by changes to the state pension age.

The First Minister has consistently called on the UK Government to deliver justice and compensate those women affected. In Holyrood this month he led a debate which discussed the importance of this.

He once again sent reassurances that the Scottish Government would not rest until WASPI women receive the justice and compensation they deserve. And most importantly he gained a cross-party consensus in the chamber agreeing this.

The First Minister has remained committed to providing for the people of Scotland. This can be seen in the introduction of a six-month pilot scheme to scrap peak rail fares. In addition, the continuation of the free under-22 bus passes has also allowed younger people increased opportunities and flexibility.

These are only just a few of the achievements of the SNP under the leadership of Humza Yousaf. I am positive the next leader will build on these achievements.

It is now imperative for the SNP to unite and ensure a smooth transition of leadership for the benefit of Scotland. Despite recent divisions in Scottish politics, it is time to collaborate and focus on the nation’s future.