Rhun ap Iorwerth, the leader of Plaid Cymru, is on track to become the next First Minister of Wales following his party's victory in a landmark Welsh Parliament election. The Senedd is set to vote on Tuesday afternoon for the new leader of the country during its first meeting after the election.
Historic Election Win
Mr ap Iorwerth's party secured the largest number of seats in the Welsh Parliament, positioning him as the frontrunner for the role of first minister. He has expressed his intention to form a minority government. If successful, he would be the first Plaid Cymru leader to hold the position of First Minister of Wales.
Background and Career
Born in South Wales, the 53-year-old Mr ap Iorwerth grew up on Anglesey. He attended Ysgol David Hughes and later Cardiff University, where he studied politics and Welsh. Before entering politics, he worked as a BBC journalist. He is married with three children.
Mr ap Iorwerth became a Member of the Senedd in 2013 after winning a by-election in Ynys Mon. He assumed the leadership of Plaid Cymru unopposed in 2023, following the resignation of his predecessor, Adam Price, after a report revealed a culture of sexual harassment, bullying, and misogyny within the party.
Political Stance
An advocate for Welsh independence, Mr ap Iorwerth has stated that his party would use its time in government to build a case for an independent Wales. However, he has ruled out holding a referendum during the first term of a Plaid Cymru government.
Support and Opposition
In Tuesday's vote, Mr ap Iorwerth is expected to receive backing from the Wales Green Party's two MSs, as confirmed by Welsh Green leader Anthony Slaughter, in addition to Plaid Cymru's 43 members. Wales has been governed by Labour first ministers since the establishment of the Welsh Parliament over two decades ago.
Baroness Eluned Morgan, the outgoing first minister, resigned as Welsh Labour leader after losing her seat in the Senedd election. Ken Skates, who secured the sixth and final seat in Fflint Wrecsam, will serve as interim Labour leader until a full leadership contest is held.
