by Daniel Johnson
March 24, 2024
Vaughan Gething, a Zambian-born lawyer, is now the First Minister of Wales.
Vaughan Gething, a Zambian-born lawyer, has made history by becoming the first Black European head of government and the first Black head of government in the United Kingdom. He was elected by the Welsh Parliament and approved by King Charles III on March 20.
Upon taking office, Gething acknowledged this historic moment in a statement on March 21, saying, “Today we turn a page in the book of our nation’s history — a history we write together. Not just because I have the honor of becoming the first Black leader in any European country, but because a generational dial has jumped too.”
The 50-year-old Gething is the first leader of Wales to be born after the U.K. delegated some powers to its former subjects in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, starting in 1990 after public votes were held.
These votes led to the countries being responsible for local government, while England retains responsibility for national matters like defense and foreign relations.
Gething joins other non-white leaders in the U.K., including Rishi Sunak in England and Humza Yousaf in Scotland. Northern Ireland is currently led by two women, making the U.K. unique in having no white men in top political positions.
Gething sees his selection as a matter of pride and a daunting responsibility. He promised that Wales would be a place where citizens can celebrate their differences and find unity in diversity.
Other leaders like Keir Starmer and Carwyn Jones have recognized the significance of Gething’s appointment. Starmer mentioned that Gething’s role as the first Black leader in the U.K. is a historic moment for Wales.
Drakeford, the outgoing leader of Wales, expressed his support for Gething and pledged to campaign together to provide quality leadership for the country.
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