John Swinney is set to become the next leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) and subsequently Scotland’s First Minister, as nominations for the party leadership close without any challengers. Swinney, who has been the Deputy First Minister, is preparing to succeed Humza Yousaf following the latter’s resignation amid political challenges and a terminated powersharing agreement with the Scottish Greens.

Yousaf’s resignation triggered the leadership contest, during which potential competitor Graeme McCormick withdrew from the race after securing enough nominations but ultimately deciding to support Swinney instead. This decision came after Swinney warned that a contested leadership bid could detract from the party’s recovery efforts. Earlier, there were rumours that former Finance Secretary Kate Forbes might challenge Swinney, but she declined to run and accepted a significant position within Swinney’s prospective team.

Keith Brown, the SNP’s depute leader, defended the internal party dynamics, attributing the uncontested leadership to a unified stance towards Scottish independence and dismissing rumours of internal coercion or behind-the-scenes deals. Brown emphasised that Swinney’s leadership was a result of his ability to foster unity and collaboration within the party.

Swinney is expected to officially become the First Minister after completing formal requirements, which include swearing three oaths of office at the Court of Session in Edinburgh, potentially as early as Tuesday.