Time cover features Scottish First Minister Yousaf as 'trailblazer'

Scotland First Minister Humza Yousaf appears on the cover of Time magazine’s latest issue as he acknowledges the crisis within the SNP during his first six months in office

• First Minister Humza Yousaf described as ‘trailblazer’ by Time
• Mr Yousaf acknowledged the impact the crisis within the SNP was having
• He said that SNP had faced ‘five of the most difficult months’ in its recent history 

The SNP leader has admitted he faces a ‘tough job’ earning the trust of the Scottish people, in a high-profile interview with the prestigious Time magazine.

First Minister Humza Yousaf also acknowledged the impact the crisis within the SNP has had on his first six months in office.

He appeared on the cover in the latest issue of the US-based title, which portrayed him as a ‘trailblazer’ who is ‘shaping the future’.

The magazine branded Mr Yousaf as one of its ‘next generation leaders’ to look out for. But the article published yesterday highlighted how he is being hindered by ‘internal divisions’ and the police probe into the SNP’s finances. It said the party ‘may now be vulnerable’, while Mr Yousaf’s ‘authority could come under strain if the SNP is seen to lose its electoral edge’.

In the interview, carried out in August, Mr Yousaf looked ahead to the next General Election and said: ‘There’s a job to do for us in those 12 to 15 months to make sure we’re re-earning the trust of the people. It’s going to be a tough job.’

Humza Yousaf appeared on the cover of the prestigious US publication Time, which portrayed him as a ‘trailblazer’ who is ‘shaping the future’.

Mr Yousaf took over as Scottish First Minister and SNP leader from Nicola Sturgeon, who stepped down in March 

Time warned that Mr Yousaf’s ‘authority could come under strain if the SNP is seen to lose its electoral edge’

He admitted the SNP had endured ‘five of the most difficult months my party has probably faced in its recent history’ and that it has ‘not been able to cut through’ due to the ongoing police investigation.

In a video released to coincide with the article’s publication, Mr Yousaf told Time about the importance of his faith, saying he is ‘proud’ to be the first Muslim head of government of a western nation.

He also revealed how 9/11 was one of the ‘seminal moments of my life’ as his ‘loyalty’ to his country was questioned after the attacks.

He added: ‘You had two choices: you either put your head in a bunker and hope it all passed by or you said, ‘You know what, these people don’t act in our name’.

‘And I don’t have to feel guilty for the actions of an extreme fringe. I stand in absolute solidarity with those who value freedom, democracy and the rule of law.’

Tory MSP Craig Hoy said: ‘Of course we should celebrate Humza Yousaf’s achievement as Scotland’s first Muslim leader. Unfortunately, six months into his term, there’s little else to applaud.

‘He’s chosen to ignore Scotland’s real priorities by continuing to focus on separatist obsessions. He may not have long to enjoy his exposure in Time before the electorate call ‘time’ on his leadership.’

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