The Welsh Government has confirmed that Eluned Morgan has been appointed as the nation’s first ever female First Minister, following a vote in the Senedd.
Morgan has spent 30 years in the public service, representing Wales in the European Parliament and the House of Lords, as well as the Senedd. Since she was elected to represent Mid and West Wales in 2016, Morgan has also served in the Cabinets of three First Ministers, the most recent of which saw her serving as the Health Secretary since 2021.
In a statement to the Senedd marking her appointment, Morgan said:
“It is the greatest honour of my life to stand before you as the first woman to become the First Minister of Wales. As First Minister, I promise to champion voices and experiences, which have too often been sidelined and silenced.
“I hope to be defined by my unwavering commitment to the people of Wales, by my years of public service and my determination to create a fairer, greener and more prosperous nation for us all.
“A leader focused on delivery and on ambition for our nation. A leader driven by a sense of service and respect for the people I serve.
“It’s our job in Government to provide everyone with the opportunity to fulfil their potential. This is based on the deep belief I have - that the success of one leads to the success of many.
“I will not be some distant figure in Cardiff Bay. I am a Welsh citizen – just like you. I want to understand the challenges you are facing. I want your priorities to become my priorities.
“While speaking up for Wales at every opportunity, I intend to lead a government that listens, learns and delivers.”
Morgan’s appointment as First Minister comes after her appointment as the new leader of Welsh Labour following Vaughan Gething’s resignation from both roles.
Following this news, Morgan is expected to announce her replacement as the Health Secretary.
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