Humza Yousaf rallies supporters to march for independence after difficult summer

Yousaf has used the summer recess to make good on his pledge to be ‘first activist’ as well as first minister, appearing at events across the country. Photograph: Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images

Humza Yousaf is hoping for sunshine. In chatty video clips that have circulated on social media this week, the first minister extends a personal invitation to SNP members and the wider yes movement to attend this Saturday’s Believe in Scotland march and rally for independence. And he assures them that whatever the weather, “nothing can dampen our enthusiasm and determination”.

It signals a distinct change in emphasis from his predecessor, Nicola Sturgeon, who rarely attended marches like this one, according to the veteran independence campaigner Lesley Riddoch. By contrast, Yousaf has the top speaker billing at the rally.