The Finance Secretary becomes the third candidate in the contest to succeed Nicola Sturgeon as Scotland’s First Minister.
Scotland’s Finance Secretary, Kate Forbes, has officially announced her candidacy to succeed Nicola Sturgeon, marking her entry as the third contender for SNP leadership. Her declaration follows announcements by Scottish Health Secretary Humza Yousaf and former community safety minister Ash Regan.
Ms Forbes, currently on maternity leave after welcoming her first child last year, shared her vision to lead Scotland towards a more unified future. She highlighted her credentials, stating she has the “experience, competence, and vision” to inspire both SNP members and the wider electorate.
In a Twitter video, Forbes emphasised the significance of the upcoming leadership decision, noting it will shape the future for Scotland’s children. She called for a leader who can unite the party after recent divisions over gender recognition reforms, pledging to listen, collaborate, and lead with integrity.
“I am ready to take on the challenges ahead with boldness, energy, and determination,” Forbes said. “Scotland needs leadership that inspires confidence, and I am prepared to offer just that.”
Her bid comes as Constitution Secretary Angus Robertson and other potential candidates, including Deputy First Minister John Swinney and SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn, declined to enter the race, citing personal reasons.
Meanwhile, Humza Yousaf, launching his campaign in Clydebank, prioritised party unity and achieving Scottish independence. Yousaf highlighted his decade-long governmental experience, which includes leading challenging portfolios like transport, justice, and the NHS during its recovery phase. Addressing critics, he asserted that his leadership could steer the party and Scotland forward.
Ash Regan, the third candidate, has taken a different stance, particularly on North Sea oil. She opposes accelerating net-zero targets if it risks jobs and economic stability in affected regions, advocating a balanced approach.
Forbes, however, faces scrutiny due to her opposition to certain SNP policies, particularly on gender reforms, which may complicate collaboration with the Greens, who have a co-operation agreement with the SNP.
As a member of the Free Church of Scotland, Forbes gained prominence in 2020 when she delivered the national budget on short notice after her predecessor’s resignation. While her conservative social views diverge from party mainstream, she insists her focus remains on building a united and prosperous Scotland.
Candidates have until Friday to secure 100 nominations across at least 20 local branches to appear on the ballot. The new leader of the SNP, and potentially Scotland’s next First Minister, will be announced on 27 March.
