Humza Yousaf gains more support ahead of today’s SNP debate in Inverness
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Local elected representatives and party members have pledged their support for progressive SNP leadership candidate Humza Yousaf ahead of today’s SNP hustings event in Inverness.
Mr Yousaf’s junior minister in the health portfolio and MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, Maree Todd, had already come out in favour of his candidacy saying “he has the qualities we need in a leader” but she was joined by several Highland councillors.
They include Aird and Loch Ness member Emma Knox who trusts him “to deliver a fair, inclusive and progressive independent Scotland” and Cllr Sarah Fanet who represents Fort William and Ardnamurchan is backing him because “as a new Scot and LGBT person, I feel valued and respected by Humza.”
Well-respected party veteran Dr Ian Cockburn, a former councillor said: “Humza has experience in government and is a long-standing member of the SNP with deep knowledge of the party’s progressive vision for an independent Scotland.”
Speaking ahead of the Highland’s hustings event, Humza Yousaf welcomed the endorsements, saying: “I’m thrilled to have gained the support of so many elected representatives and party members here in the Highlands.
“The Highlands faces distinct challenges, and my policies reflect this. I have unveiled plans to tackle depopulation in rural communities, invest in childcare, and provide support to community projects tackling the Tory cost of living crisis.”
He added: “I look forward to setting out my vision for a socially just, fair, and prosperous independent Scotland, and discussing my policies in more detail at today’s hustings event in Inverness.”
Maree Todd, MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross:
“From delivering the much-needed improvements to the A9 Berriedale Braes in his role as Transport Minister, to overseeing the delivery of a brand-new National Treatment Centre in Inverness as Health Secretary – Humza has a strong track record here in the Highlands.
“I believe he has the qualities we need in a leader, and I’m delighted to offer him my support.”
Sarah Fanet, Highland Councillor for Fort William and Ardnamurchan:
“Humza supports Scotland’s voice and place in Europe which will bring solidarity and opportunities to the people of Scotland. He will stand up to the UK Government’s sordid use of Section 35 aimed at undermining the Scottish Parliament and dividing the people of Scotland.
“As a new Scot and LGBT person, I feel valued and respected by Humza.”
Emma Knox, Highland Councillor for Aird & Loch Ness Ward:
“I will be voting for Humza because I trust him to deliver a fair, inclusive and progressive independent Scotland. He will protect women’s rights and he supports safe access to comprehensive healthcare, including abortion services. He is the only candidate who has said he will challenge efforts by the UK Government to use section 35 to thwart legislation that was democratically and legitimately passed by our Scottish Parliament”
Dr Ian Cockburn, Former Highland Councillor and SNP NEC representative for the Highlands & Islands:
“I’m delighted to support Humza for SNP leader and First Minister. Humza has experience in government and is a long-standing member of the SNP with deep knowledge of the party’s progressive vision for an independent Scotland.”
