The division of the Scottish independence movement is evident in Humza Yousaf’s new government

The wounds left by the harsh primaries in the Scottish independence movement They will need time to heal. At least that is clear from the Government of the new head of government, Humza Yousaf. Nor the rival of the new president, Kate Forbesnor did his allies accept to enter the new executive.

Yousaf offered his former rival for the leadership of the ruling Scottish National Party (SNP) the post of rural and island affairs secretary. However, Forbes declined the offer, reflecting on it “insult” and “degradation”, according to local media from sources close to the leader. Forbes was until now the Chancellor of the Exchequer and therefore responsible for Scottish finances.

Not only did Forbes turn down Yousaf’s invitation to join his government, but other allies such as former trade minister, Ivan McKeeresigned from a position that was not to his liking.

During the campaign, the incumbent chief minister lashed out at his rival’s conservative stance and warned that if Forbes won the race, The SNP would move away from the “progressive path” and he would lose the election.

younger and feminine

Although there is no longer a woman at the head of Scottish local government, the representation of women has increased. So of the nine secretaries, five are women. Likewise, half of the members of the new Government are younger than 40 years old.

Yousaf assured that his team reflects the “priorities we will strive for”, among which he mentioned the fight against child poverty, improving public services and building a fairer and greener economy.

“As we strive for Scottish independence, we will continue to govern well and show Scots the benefits of decisions about their lives made here in Scotland,” he said. And although Yousaf promised that his administration would be different from his predecessor’s, Nicola Sturgeonwhose dauphin he was, the fact that he determined Shona Robinson As the new minister for the economy, she reveals how much influence the former ruler still has. Robinson is considered a a close ally sturgeon.