SNP members give verdict on Humza Yousaf after one year

After weeks of campaigning following Nicola Sturgeon’s resignation, the former health secretary was chosen to lead the party after beating Kate Forbes and Ash Regan.

Yousaf won in the second round of voting with 52.1% - so how do SNP members feel after a year of Yousaf?

“If he was being given marks out of 10 for his first year, I would award Humza a 6. He had a very hard act to follow in Nicola and, unfortunately, inherited a set of circumstances that would have tested the abilities of any political leader to the hilt. Despite this he never let his head go down and he steadied the ship. He has made mistakes - one of them in my opinion due to being over loyal to a colleague. I didn't vote for Humza in the leadership contest, but I can say in all honesty that I don't think he has let the party or Scotland down in his first year.” - James Finlayson, Deeside and Upper Donside

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“Humza has done ok, but I do not see any urgency to stop the closure of Grangemouth or the push to get a Scottish ferry to Europe. Also, he needs to drive forward independence. No more mandates. If we win a majority, then he needs to declare independence. Fed up with the same old soft approach.” - Claire Morrison, Aberdeen South

“I think his grace in the face of the unrelenting attacks, mostly personal, often borderline if not full out racist, has been remarkable.” - Barry Jarvis, Elgin

“I remember how he went calmly to talk to a woman heckling him at a conference speech. That sums him up I think - unpretentious, calm, engaging.” – Catherine Lloyd, Marchmont

“Humza is a humane and compassionate First Minister in high contrast to the toxic government we have at Westminster. He has also shown just how right of centre Starmer’s U-turning, standing-for-nothing, Labour Party is and how the SNP is far more concerned with helping the many now struggling with the cost of living crisis. In my opinion, many people underestimate him and come the General Election, I think voters will find him far more sincere than the fake Labour Party, selfish Tories and duplicitous LibDems.” - Christopher Griffiths, Western Isles

"Humza has surprised me, he is a good orator with an air of honesty unusual for politicians, he comes across as a caring and genuine person with great patience, I'm delighted to have him represent us as FM." - Bill Peden, Prestwick

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“In his concern to serve the people of Scotland, First Minister Humza Yousaf has shown himself to be courageous, respectful and full of integrity. He has a strength of character and a gentleness rarely found in leaders navigating complex political landscapes. A standout moment exemplifying the First Minister’s commitment was when, in his visit to Aberdeen, he upheld the cause of Scottish workers, declaring his desire to protect the oil and gas industry in the gradual transition to green-energy - in marked contrast to Labour's harmful policies. It is also clear that the FM collaborates effectively with women, demonstrating mutual respect and inclusivity - principles that are crucial in upholding democracy. This engagement (modestly exemplified, during a campaign session, by his congratulations to my brother on his winning a university place) underscores his genuine care for people in Scotland. Moreover, his support for free education is further evidence of his commitment to the well-being of the country. In a political landscape often marked by specious rhetoric his actions speak volumes about his dedication to the principles he upholds.” – Maya Hay, YSI and Gryffe

“Humza had big shoes to fill, and he has made the job his own. My wife and I met him after a travelling cabinet meeting and he impressed us with his sincerity and thanked us for our support within the party. Subsequently, his care and concern following the invasion of Gaza has impressed.” – Graham Larkin, Mid Argyll, Dalriada

“Humza has made a great impression as a compassionate family man who cares deeply for Scotland and its people, and desires Scottish independence. The white papers are brilliant, having a Minister for Independence is an inspiring idea. Glad Humza's taking part in marches and rallies too. Future ideas could include: a Scottish Banking institute; gather support from other countries; the foundations of Constitutional Convention; billboards, TV, radio and newspaper adverts demonstrating Scotland's potential and comparisons with other countries and how we are asset stripped.” – Flora Robertson, Craigentinny

“He was a surprise choice for sure but I think he’s done a brilliant job stepping into some huge shoes. I think he’s got a bit to go to find his own identity in the role but overall, I’m happy with him and his efforts.” - Ryan Flay, Lochaber

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“I think Humza has had a reasonable year in office, given the circumstances. I remember when I became secretary general of a large international charity, an insider said to me, ‘you're too nice for the job'. I wasn't. Humza has got to learn that you cannot be nice all the time to everyone, and he has to be more hard-hitting against Unionists such as all the Scottish Tories and LibDems (and repeat Cole-Hamilton's statement at the Oxford Union that Scotland shouldn't exist as a nation ad nauseam) and most of Labour and give us more of a vision of what independence would look like. Ruin after independence? Name one country which has become independent in Europe in our lifetime, and which has become a basket case like the UK? Given the remarks by snide Westminster politicians such as Ben Wallace ('wee pretendy foreign secretaries') and the odious unelected Baron Foulkes and his ilk, we have to realise that this is an existential crisis for Scotland. If our people vote for unionists, they are sleepwalking into national oblivion.” - Dr Duncan MacGregor MacLaren, Glasgow Kelvin

“I didn’t vote for Humza as I didn’t want a ‘continuity’ FM. However, I have been quite happy with him. He has come across as a caring individual who wants to do his best for Scotland and its people. However, I would like to see much more fire with regards to independence. Stephen Flynn makes a good pairing.” - Morag Giblin, Cumnock and Doon Valley

“Humza is strong with his message but calm in his delivery, even in the face of some quite outrageous unionist provocation. Well done sir.” – Walter Goodwin, Black Isle

“There have been fewer changes than I’d hoped but his willingness to work with other independence supporting organisations and individuals has been welcome.” - Elizabeth McMahon, Mid Fife and Glenrothes

“Not quite the statesperson Nicola was but he seems to be growing into the job. The longer in the job the more experienced he will become, and his leadership skills will vastly improve.” - Brian Massie, Aberdeen

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“I think Humza is a good leader of The Scottish Government. He has shown principle and commitment to independence and especially to fairness and inclusivity in society, caring for the poor, children, and human rights for minority groups. His unwavering stance on Gaza whilst his own family was in peril was brave and statesmanlike. Under his watch Scotland is becoming a fairer society. He is growing into the job. Keep going Humza, with you all the way.” - Jenny Campbell, Portobello and Craigmillar

“Humza had an impossible act to follow. He does not share Nicola’s extraordinary grasp of detail or have her debating skills - but then neither does anyone else. And he has been faced with unprecedented attacks on the party and government - blue tents etc. But he does have Nicola's common touch and comes across as a thoroughly decent and honest guy. Who could say that about any of the other parties’ leaders? I'm proud to have him and I am sure he will continue to grow into the job.” - Tom Berney, East Kilbride