Rhun ap Iorwerth has been voted first minister of Wales after Plaid Cymru secured a historic victory in the Senedd elections, ending over a century of Labour dominance in Welsh politics. The appointment was confirmed during a plenary vote on Tuesday, with support from all 43 Plaid Cymru Members of the Senedd (MS) and two Green Party members.
End of an era for Labour
Plaid Cymru's electoral triumph last week saw the party win the most seats in the newly expanded 96-member parliament, defeating both Labour and Reform UK. Reform UK, which had hoped to become the largest party, secured 34 seats, while Labour suffered a dramatic collapse, winning only nine seats. This marks a definitive end to Labour's century-long grip on its birthplace in Wales.
Former Labour first minister Eluned Morgan lost her seat in the election, triggering a leadership contest within the party. Ken Skates, the MS for Fflint Wrecsam and former cabinet secretary for transport, has taken over as interim leader of the Welsh Labour group.
Minority government and cooperation strategy
Under Wales's new, more representative electoral system, a party needs at least 49 seats for a majority. No party achieved this threshold, but Plaid Cymru's 43 seats place it in a strong position to form a minority government. Ap Iorwerth has indicated he will seek mature, case-by-case cooperation with all opposition parties to advance legislation and policy.
Speaking to the Guardian prior to his appointment, ap Iorwerth stated that his administration would press the UK government for additional powers over policy areas such as policing and justice, rather than engaging in political disputes with Westminster. He emphasised a pragmatic approach to governance.
Independence and cabinet appointments
Plaid Cymru has ruled out holding an independence referendum during the next Senedd term, but the party has reiterated its commitment to making the case for an independent Wales throughout its time in government. The Senedd also voted Labour's deputy leader, Huw Irranca-Davies, as the new Llywydd (presiding officer) prior to the first minister vote. Ap Iorwerth is expected to begin appointing cabinet secretaries on Tuesday afternoon.
