The Western Mail reports today that Rhodri Morgan has given a further hint that he may cancel plans to step down as First Minister in the autumn.
They say that the First Minister, who has previously vowed to stand aside around the time of his 70th birthday on September 29, said he may stay on in the event of a major swine flu outbreak.
This latest development effectively moves the goalposts on Rhodri Morgan’s decision to retire from the job he has held for nearly nine years. Combined with Huw Lewis’ plea for the First Minister to stay on “for the sake of the party and the country” this adds further uncertainty to the leadership of the Assembly.
It is not surprising therefore that Kirsty Williams is concerned at the impact these mixed messages will have on the devolution project:
She said: “Welsh businesses, public services, and anybody with a healthy concern for our young democracy deserve some clarity over Mr Morgan’s plans.
“With Wales stuck in deep recession and understandable public desire for political reform, this is no time for self-indulgence.”
Leaders are notoriously reluctant to step aside when it is time, believing that they are indispensable. However, that is no reason for the First Minister to play hide and seek with Wales for the next three or four months.
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