In a heartfelt tribute, First Minister Eluned Morgan praised Mark Drakeford as the Senedd wraps up before the upcoming elections. Mr. Drakeford, who served as First Minister from 2018 to 2024, is stepping down and not seeking re-election in May. Eluned Morgan expressed gratitude for his leadership, stating, “Mark’s leadership laid the foundations for a stronger, greener, fairer Wales. He helped shape our government from the start and was pivotal during the pandemic.”
She continued, “Thank you, Mark, for everything you’ve done—not just for your constituency or our party, but for all of Wales. We owe you a great debt of gratitude for your service.”
The session wasn’t without a bit of political drama. Conservative leader Darren Millar pointed out the absence of praise for Eluned Morgan’s immediate predecessor, Vaughan Gething, who briefly held the First Minister role before resigning amidst controversy. Mr. Millar accused her of trying to airbrush Mr. Gething from history, highlighting a lack of acknowledgment in her statement.
As the Senedd transitions, the focus shifts to the campaign trail for the elections set for May 7th. But today, it’s all about recognising the legacy of Mark Drakeford and his enduring impact on Welsh politics.