Vaughan Gething, the newly-elected Welsh Labour leader, is embroiled in controversy over a £200,000 donation received during his leadership campaign from a company owned by David John Neal, a man previously convicted of environmental crimes. The donation has ignited concerns and discussions among Labour Assembly Members, with 14 of them meeting to deliberate on the possibility of returning the funds. This turmoil threatens to overshadow Gething’s anticipated appointment as the First Minister of Wales, as some members of the Senedd consider withholding their vote in his favor unless the donation is addressed.

Despite the mounting pressure, Gething has defended the legality of the donation, affirming its compliance with electoral regulations. However, the episode has invited criticism and calls for transparency, notably from senior Conservative MP Sir Robert Buckland and within the Labour ranks. The controversy arises amidst Labour’s criticisms of the Tories over their donors, pointing to a wider debate on political funding and ethics.

Gething, who succeeded Mark Drakeford to become Labour’s leader, narrowly won his position with backing from party members, trade unions, and various groups. His leadership victory was marked by promises to review campaign donations in light of the backlash. Drakeford, who led Wales through significant challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic and faced scrutiny over policy decisions, is stepping down after more than five years in office. Gething is set to make history as the first black leader of a European nation after Drakeford’s official resignation to the King. The unfolding donor scandal, however, places Gething at the center of a critical examination of campaign finance and leadership integrity within Welsh politics.