THE appointment of SNP MSP Kaukab Stewart to a ministerial position has been praised as “inspiring” after she became the first woman of colour to hold the post in the Scottish Government.
Stewart, the MSP for Glasgow Kelvin, has taken over as Minister for Culture, Europe and International Development.
Christina McKelvie, who previously held the role, will become Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy after Elena Whitham stepped down due to health reasons earlier this week.
The reshuffle was also sparked by the resignation of Michael Matheson following an investigation into an £11,000 roaming bill he racked up on his iPad while on holiday in Morocco.
It means Stewart becomes the first woman of colour to become a minister in the Scottish Government, after becoming the first woman of colour elected to the Scottish Parliament in 2021.
READ MORE: Tory MSP slammed for 'shameful' tweet about Elena Whitham
“History made as 7 women make up the Scottish Government Cabinet of 10,” said human rights activist Shazia Babar.
“It’s also inspiring to see the first woman of colour appointed to @scotgov.
“Congratulations @kaukabstewart an excellent addition to @scotgov and an exceptional MSP for Glasgow Kelvin”.
This moment is absolutely amazing. Kaukab makes history because she works hard, is loyal and is being recognised for her achievements & ability.
— Cllr Michelle Campbell (@CampbellSNP) February 8, 2024
As a WoC, Kaukab is exemplary because she is strong - that is what makes history 💪🏽 https://t.co/K03uyIHZDJ
SNP councillor Simita Kumar said she was “delighted” with the news. “Absolute role model and inspiration for women and girls everywhere.
“Delighted with this appointment @kaukabstewart”.
READ MORE: Humza Yousaf reshuffles Scottish Cabinet – see the full list of changes
While X/Twitter user John Cumming added: “Particularly delighted for @kaukabstewart, Scotland’s new minister for culture, Europe and international development.
“It shouldn’t have taken until the 25th anniversary of devolution for a woman of colour to serve in govt, but this is an important milestone nevertheless.”
The MSP and former teacher recently made headlines after calling for the school starting age to be raised and for a universal kindergarten stage to be introduced across Scotland.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel