Scotland’s Transport Minister, Kevin Stewart, has resigned from his post due to ongoing struggles with his mental health. In a heartfelt letter addressed to First Minister Humza Yousaf, Mr. Stewart explained that he has been grappling with mental health issues since October of the previous year, ultimately reaching a point where he feels unable to meet the demands of his role effectively.
Having served as the transport minister since 2021, Mr. Stewart expressed deep remorse for leaving the government but emphasized the necessity of prioritizing his mental well-being. He reassured his commitment to continue his role as an MSP for Aberdeen Central.
In his letter, Mr. Stewart candidly shared, “Since last October, I have been battling with my mental health. While I have faced similar challenges in the past, this time has proven different. I have now come to a realization that I can no longer fulfill the role’s demands to the best of my abilities.”
Acknowledging his departure during a challenging period for the Scottish Government, Mr. Stewart expressed his regret. He stated, “Leaving the government at this juncture deeply saddens me. I take immense pride in the work accomplished during my tenure. However, I firmly believe that prioritizing my mental health is the best decision for myself and my family.”
While concluding his letter, Mr. Stewart affirmed his dedication to continue serving as an MSP for Aberdeen Central and pledged his unwavering support for the government from the backbenches. He conveyed his gratitude to First Minister Yousaf for the support received and extended his best wishes for the future.
First Minister Yousaf expressed his deep regret upon hearing about Mr. Stewart’s resignation and expressed understanding of his decision. He acknowledged Mr. Stewart’s commitment and significant contributions to the Scottish Government, offering his best wishes for the road ahead.
Mr. Stewart’s resignation arrives at a challenging time for the Scottish Government, as it confronts various issues such as the cost of living crisis and the ongoing ferries scandal. Although his departure presents a setback, it serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of prioritizing mental health. Ensuring Mr. Stewart’s well-being should be a shared responsibility, and the government must address mental health concerns proactively.
