Wales' First Minister Mark Drakeford Announces Resignation
Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford has announced his decision to step down as Welsh Labour leader, surprising many with the timing of his announcement.
Drakeford, who has been in the role for exactly five years, confirmed his departure at a press conference in the Senedd, stating, "When I stood for the leadership, I said that, if elected, I would serve for five years. Exactly five years have passed since I was confirmed as first minister in 2018."
Initially planning to resign in 2024, the Cardiff West Member of the Senedd (MS) will now step aside earlier than anticipated.
The upcoming Welsh Labour Party leadership contest will determine his successor, with Drakeford remaining as the first minister until the new leader is elected. He expressed confidence that the process would conclude by the end of the spring term, allowing the new leader's name to be presented to the Senedd before the Easter recess.
Having played a prominent role during the pandemic, Drakeford highlighted the need to look forward to the next five years across the UK and the next 25 years of devolution in Wales. He expressed hope that his successor would have the opportunity to collaborate with a newly-elected Labour government in London.
As the Welsh political landscape prepares for the leadership transition, Drakeford concluded, "There will be plenty of time for political obituaries and retrospection once I cease to be the first minister. But not before."
