Vaughan Gething is set to become the next first minister of Wales after succeeding Mark Drakeford as Welsh Labour leader. Following an emotional speech by Drakeford, who stood down on Tuesday after five years, Gething is expected to be chosen by members of the Senedd on Wednesday. If selected, his name will be sent to the King for formal approval.
Gething, who narrowly won the leadership election, has faced criticism over financial donations made to his campaign by Dauson Environmental Group, a company in his Cardiff South and Penarth constituency whose owner has been convicted of environmental offences. Labour politicians met on Monday to discuss the donations, but it is unlikely they will stop Gething’s nomination.
The 50-year-old would be Wales’ fifth first minister, and the first from an ethnic minority background in the role. He would also become the only black leader of a national government in Europe. Gething served as health minister during the Covid pandemic and has acknowledged the need for a review of the rules governing funding for future campaigns.
The Conservatives and Plaid Cymru are expected to put forward leaders Andrew RT Davies and Rhun ap Iorwerth, respectively, during Wednesday’s debate. However, neither opposition party has sufficient seats to challenge Gething for the top job
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