Vaughan Gething and Jeremy Miles compete for the role in closely watched election, marking a historic moment for Welsh politics

In a pivotal moment for Welsh politics, the winner of the Welsh Labour leadership contest, poised to assume the role of Wales’ new first minister, will be revealed later today. Competing for the position are Vaughan Gething and Jeremy Miles, both vying to succeed Mark Drakeford, who is stepping down next week.

The announcement, scheduled to take place in Cardiff, awaits the declaration from Labour Party officials, signifying the conclusion of the closely watched election.

If successful, Vaughan Gething would make history as Wales’ first black first minister, while Jeremy Miles would become the country’s inaugural gay leader. However, the newly elected leader will not assume office until the official transition process next week.

The leadership election allowed participation from any member of the party in Wales or affiliated organizations like trade unions. The ballot, conducted between February 16 and March 14, enabled members to cast their votes either by post or online.

Vaughan Gething, currently serving as Wales’ economy minister, brings a diverse background, having been born in Zambia and later educated in Dorset, Aberystwyth, and Cardiff. His opponent, Jeremy Miles, hailing from Pontarddulais, emerged from a Welsh-speaking upbringing and has served as Wales’ Education Minister.

Following Mark Drakeford’s anticipated final First Minister’s Questions on Tuesday, he will formally resign, paving the way for the nomination of his successor in the Senedd the next day. Given Labour’s majority of 30 out of 60 seats in the Senedd, the new leader is expected to seamlessly assume the role of first minister.

The incoming leader, whether Gething or Miles, will take charge as the fifth leader of Wales’ devolved government since its establishment in 1999, succeeding notable figures like Alun Michael, Rhodri Morgan, Carwyn Jones, and Mark Drakeford. Additionally, they will shoulder the responsibility of leading Labour’s campaign in Wales for the upcoming UK general election.