Vaughan Gething to become Wales' first black leader

Vaughan Gething says he becomes the "first black leader in any European country"

Vaughan Gething is poised to become Wales' next First Minister after narrowly winning the Welsh Labour leadership election with 51.7% of the vote.

Mr. Gething, who will be the first black person to lead Wales, emerged victorious over his rival Jeremy Miles, who secured 48.3% of the votes.

He received congratulations from UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

However, Plaid Cymru has expressed "deep concerns" over donations from a controversial waste company based in Cardiff.

Mr. Gething's campaign faced scrutiny due to headlines about £200,000 in contributions from Dauson Environmental Group, owned by an individual prosecuted twice for environmental offenses.

Welsh government minister and Miles supporter Julie James called for a review of future leadership campaign procedures.

Jeremy Miles said he was "incredibly proud" of his campaign

Mark Drakeford is expected to resign on Tuesday after his final First Minister's Questions in the Senedd. Mr. Gething will assume office the following day.

Born to a Welsh father and a Zambian mother, Mr. Gething pursued a legal career before being elected to the Welsh Parliament in 2011.

Currently serving as the economy minister in Mr. Drakeford's cabinet, Mr. Gething celebrated his 50th birthday on Friday.

Mr. Starmer commended Mr. Gething, stating he would "lead a hopeful, ambitious Welsh Labour government, in contrast to the tired and failed Tory government in Westminster."

In a heartfelt moment, Mr. Gething received a warm hug from his young son upon the announcement of his victory.

Mr. Miles departed from the Cardiff University building where the results were announced without speaking to the media but later issued a written statement congratulating Mr. Gething.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Gething praised his predecessor, Mr. Drakeford, and acknowledged his rival's contributions, highlighting the new hope he brought to Welsh public life.

Addressing his victory, he emphasized the significance of becoming the first black leader in any European country and heralded a new era for Wales.

Mr. Gething affirmed his unwavering commitment to devolution and environmental regulation, noting that Welsh solutions to Welsh problems are deeply ingrained in his approach.

Regarding the controversy over campaign donations, Mr. Gething defended his actions, stating he followed the rules diligently and was fulfilling his duties as a constituency member.

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth called for the return of the campaign donation, citing concerns about Mr. Gething's judgment.