March 24th 2024.
Vaughan Gething, a lawyer born in Zambia, has made history by becoming the first Black European head of government and the first Black leader in the United Kingdom. This monumental achievement came after he was elected by the Welsh Parliament and approved by King Charles III on March 20th.
In his statement on March 21st, shortly after taking office, Gething acknowledged the significance of this moment in history, stating, "Today marks a new chapter in our nation's story - a story that we are writing together. Not only because I have the honor of being the first Black leader in any European country, but also because we have reached a new level of progress as a generation."
As the new First Minister, Gething is determined to lead a government that advocates for progressive politics. He believes that by coming together, we can achieve great things for the whole of Wales. Gething also expressed his gratitude to the members who supported his nomination.
At 50 years old, Gething is the first leader of Wales to be born after the U.K. granted more powers to its former subjects in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. These changes were initiated in 1990 after public referendums were held. As a result, these countries now have more control over local government, while England remains responsible for national matters such as defense and foreign relations.
Gething joins other non-white leaders in the U.K., including Rishi Sunak, a Prime Minister of Indian descent, and Humza Yousaf, the First Minister of Scotland, who is of Pakistani descent. This marks a significant shift from the past, as Northern Ireland is now led by two women. In fact, there are no white men at the top of the political pyramid in any of the U.K.'s countries.
During his confirmation speech to legislators on March 20th, Gething expressed both pride and a sense of responsibility in his new role. He promised to create a Wales where diversity is celebrated and citizens can take pride in their differences while also finding common ground.
Many other leaders, including Keir Starmer, the leader of the U.K.'s Labor Party, and former Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones, have recognized the importance of Gething's position. Starmer believes that Gething's appointment as Wales' first minister is a testament to the progress and values of modern-day Wales. Jones also sees it as a source of national pride, stating, "It's something we can all be proud of in Wales."
Meanwhile, the outgoing leader of Wales, Mark Drakeford, has pledged to support Gething in his efforts to provide quality leadership to the country. He believes that Gething will be the next generation of leadership for the party and looks forward to campaigning with him for a U.K. Labour government that Wales desperately needs.
In addition to his political duties, Gething has also expressed his support for research into the British monarchy's involvement in slavery. As reported by The Guardian, King Charles III has also shown his support for this important investigation. With Gething at the helm, Wales is moving towards a more inclusive and progressive future.
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