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Mark Drakeford says he won’t stand for Senedd re-election in 2026

News | Rhys Williams | Published: 10:32, Thursday August 10th, 2023.
Last updated: 10:32, Thursday August 10th, 2023

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First Minister Mark Drakeford during a Welsh Government coronavirus press conference
First Minister Mark Drakeford during a Welsh Government coronavirus press conference

First Minister Mark Drakeford will not be standing for re-election at the next Senedd Election.

Mr Drakeford, who has been the leader of Welsh Labour since 2018, has previously stated his intent to step down as First Minister and party leader before the next elections, set for 2026.

Now, he has confirmed he will not be seeking re-election as a Senedd Member in his Cardiff West constituency, which he has represented since 2011.

The First Minister announced his decision on Wednesday at the National Eisteddfod, which is being held in Boduan, Gwynydd.

However, he insisted he would not “step back from the debate or stop thinking about Wales’ future” after leaving the Senedd.

Mr Drakeford, 68, succeeded Carwyn Jones as Welsh Labour leader and First Minister, having won a leadership contest against Vaughan Gething and Eluned Morgan.

Since his election, Mr Drakeford has guided Wales through the coronavirus pandemic and led Welsh Labour to becoming the largest party in the 2021 Senedd Elections.


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