Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford Announces Resignation

Drakeford to Step Down by Easter 2024, Successor to be Elected Before Easter Recess

Mark Drakeford, the First Minister of Wales, has announced his resignation, effective by Easter 2024. His successor will be elected before the Easter recess.
Drakeford has been First Minister for five years and led the Welsh Labour Party through the COVID-19 pandemic, Brexit, climate crisis, and changes in UK leadership.
His tenure has been marked by his cautious approach to COVID-19 restrictions, his introduction of a controversial 20mph speed limit in built-up areas, and his commitment to socialist traditions.
Potential successors include Economy Minister Vaughan Gething, Education Minister Jeremy Miles, Health Minister Eluned Morgan, Climate Change Minister Julie James, and Deputy Minister for Social Partnership Hannah Blythyn.
Drakeford's resignation comes at a time when his popularity appears to be in decline, with a recent ITV poll suggesting that more than 50% of Welsh people think he is doing a bad job.