Copyright: PA Media
Humza Yousaf could have taken the highest position in Scottish politics, however the circumstances have been difficult at occasions.
Within the area of 12 months, the SNP modified chief and first minister, chief government, president, Westminster chief, treasurer and communications chief.
Then there have been the arrests of former chief government Peter Murrell, former treasurer Colin Beattie and former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, as a part of a police investigation into the get together’s funding and funds. All have been launched with out cost pending additional inquiries.
Coverage-wise, Yousaf has deserted a collection of commitments from Nicola Sturgeon’s time within the job, together with a ban on alcohol promoting, an growth of Extremely Protected Marine Areas and gender reform.
Sturgeon’s independence technique has been retained, although activists stay stressed in regards to the lack of clear course.
Within the midst of an inflation disaster and a funding black gap, the Scottish authorities’s price range coupled tax rises with funding cuts.
Final yr was additionally marked with private strife for Yousaf as his spouse’s dad and mom have been trapped in Gaza on the outset of the struggle.
In happier household information, he will likely be taking paternity depart in the summertime when he turns into the primary sitting first minister to welcome a baby whereas in workplace.
As for the subsequent yr? Fierce criticism of the state of the NHS continues – latest revelations together with delays to little one spinal surgical procedures – whereas the polarising Hate Crime Act takes impact from Monday.
A UK basic election additionally looms – the technique for which is to border all Tory seats as a straight battle with the SNP, regardless of a resurgent Labour in Scotland.
