Exciting times for Welsh politics! Rhun ap Iorwerth is poised to make history as Plaid Cymru’s first-ever First Minister today. As the newly-expanded Senedd meets, they’ll be casting crucial votes, including the appointment of the First Minister.
The process kicks off with the election of the Presiding Officer and their deputy. Labour’s Huw Irranca-Davies and Conservative Paul Davies have thrown their hats in the ring for Llywydd, though there might be last-minute surprises from other parties. Plaid Cymru will also need to propose a deputy Presiding Officer.
When it comes to the First Minister vote, it looks like Rhun ap Iorwerth has got it in the bag. With backing from all 43 Plaid Cymru colleagues and support from the two Green Party members, he’s expected to surpass Reform UK’s Dan Thomas. Labour and Liberal Democrat members are planning to abstain, making it unlikely for Reform UK’s 34 representatives to sway the result.
Once all Senedd members have voiced their choices, and if things go according to plan, Rhun ap Iorwerth will just need the King’s nod to be officially sworn in. We can look forward to him assembling his cabinet starting tomorrow!
This historic moment is set against the backdrop of an expanded Senedd, now with 96 members, allowing for up to 17 ministerial appointments. Exciting times ahead for Wales and Plaid Cymru! Stay tuned to see how this unfolds. 🌟🏴
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