Rhun ap Iorwerth has been elected first minister of Wales following Plaid Cymru’s victory in last week’s Senedd election, ending Labour’s 100-year dominance. The appointment was confirmed by a plenary vote on Tuesday, with support from Plaid Cymru’s 43 members and two Green MSs. Welsh Labour and the sole Liberal Democrat abstained, while Reform UK’s Dan Thomas and Conservative Darren Millar also stood for the post.
Ap Iorwerth, who is pro-Welsh independence, received a standing ovation as the result was announced. He said it was the greatest privilege of his life and promised to lead “without prejudice or presumption”. He paid tribute to outgoing Labour first minister Eluned Morgan, who lost her seat. Ken Skates has taken over as interim Labour leader.
Reform UK’s Dan Thomas, now leader of the opposition, said his party would be a “robust opposition” and reminded the Senedd that there is a pro-union majority. Plaid Cymru has ruled out an independence referendum this term but will continue to make the case for independence. Ap Iorwerth previously stated he would seek cooperation from all parties and press the UK government for devolved powers.
Under the expanded 96-seat Senedd, a majority requires 49 seats. Plaid Cymru is in a comfortable position to form a minority government. Before the first minister vote, Labour’s Huw Irranca-Davies was elected as the new llywydd (speaker), and Plaid Cymru’s Kerry Ferguson became deputy presiding officer. Ap Iorwerth, 53, grew up on Anglesey, worked as a BBC journalist, and became Plaid leader in 2023.
