He expressed his intention to remain as first minister until his successor is elected, but confirmed that he would be resigning from the position following the SNP’s leadership election. This marks the second leadership contest within the SNP in two years, with Yousaf assuming office after Nicola Sturgeon’s unexpected resignation. Yousaf’s decision to end the power-sharing deal with the Greens last week, amidst a dispute over climate targets, has placed his position in jeopardy.

The Greens’ leadership was infuriated by the way the break-up occurred, leading them to announce their support for opposition efforts to oust Yousaf through a vote of confidence in the Scottish Parliament. Yousaf was also facing a separate confidence vote regarding his entire government. During his speech on Monday, Yousaf, visibly moved to tears as he expressed gratitude to his family for their support, stated that while it was possible to navigate through the motion of no confidence this week, he was not willing to compromise his values and principles just to hold onto power.

Yousaf, emotionally expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to lead Scotland, mentioned that he was sad about his time as first minister coming to an end. He left the press conference without taking any questions.