Humza Yousaf Reflects on Leadership Challenges and Political Exit

The former SNP leader cites external crises and a fractured alliance with the Greens as pivotal moments in his decision to leave frontline politics.

Humza Yousaf announced he will not seek re-election to the Scottish Parliament in 2026, marking the end of his 15-year political career.
Yousaf’s resignation as SNP leader in May followed the collapse of the Bute House Agreement with the Scottish Greens, which left his leadership untenable.
He acknowledged that the SNP’s poor performance in the July general election, where the party won only nine Westminster seats, would likely have ended his leadership had he stayed.
Yousaf cited the police investigation into SNP finances, known as Operation Branchform, as one of the most challenging aspects of his tenure.
Looking ahead, Yousaf plans to focus on global issues such as conflict resolution and combating the rise of the far right, though he has no firm post-politics plans yet.