After the successor to Wales’ First Minister Mark Drakeford is announced on Saturday, March 19, a series of procedural steps will follow to ensure the smooth transition of leadership within the Welsh Government.
On March 19th, Mark Drakeford will conclude his tenure by participating in his final Questions at the First Minister session at the Welsh Parliament, commonly known as the Senedd.
This session serves as an opportunity for members of the Senedd to engage in dialogue with the outgoing First Minister, reflecting on his leadership and addressing any remaining inquiries or concerns.
Welsh Labour Party Leadership (Credits: CBS 42)
Following this session, Mark Drakeford is expected to formally tender his resignation to the King, signifying the conclusion of his term as First Minister. This resignation marks a significant moment in Welsh political history, signaling the end of one era and the beginning of another.
On March 20th, the Welsh Government will proceed with notifying the Welsh Parliament’s presiding officer, Elin Jones, once the Palace has officially accepted Mr. Drakeford’s resignation.
This communication between the Welsh Government and the presiding officer is a crucial step in the transition process, ensuring that the necessary administrative procedures are followed with precision.
Once Elin Jones receives confirmation of Mr. Drakeford’s resignation from the Palace, she will lay a written statement before the Senedd, formally announcing and acknowledging the resignation.
This written statement serves as an official record of Mr. Drakeford’s departure from office, marking the commencement of the transition period.
Following the formal acknowledgment of Mr. Drakeford’s resignation, nominations for the next First Minister will take place during the Plenary session held later that afternoon. This nomination process allows members of the Senedd to put forward candidates for consideration as Mr. Drakeford’s successor.
Welsh Labour Party Leadership (Credits: Sky News)
If only one candidate is nominated for the position of First Minister, that individual will be declared as the nominee, simplifying the process and expediting the transition. However, if multiple nominations are made, a more involved voting procedure will ensue.
In the event of multiple nominations, every member of the Senedd, with the exception of the presiding officer and the deputy presiding officer, will cast their vote for their preferred candidate by roll call.
This voting process ensures that each member’s voice is heard and that the selection of the next First Minister is representative of the collective will of the Senedd.
Once the voting process concludes and a nominee is selected, Elin Jones, as the presiding officer, will recommend the Senedd’s chosen nominee to the King.
This recommendation serves as the final step in the process of appointing the next First Minister of Wales, ensuring that the transition of leadership is conducted in accordance with established constitutional protocols.
The succession process for Wales’ First Minister involves a series of carefully orchestrated steps, culminating in the formal appointment of the chosen nominee to lead the Welsh Government into the future.
