IT’S hard to predict what the future holds for our political leaders in the coming year – so can the stars shine any light on what to expect?
Probably not ... but here, the Sunday National takes a look at the political horoscopes (or horrorscopes), as is our tradition.
HUMZA YOUSAF: ARIES
Apparently, Arians like to be number one so it’s fitting that Yousaf is now our First Minister even though he’s had rather mixed fortunes since taking the reins earlier this year.
According to the Allure website, Arians are bold and ambitious and likely to dive headfirst into even the most challenging situations. They are also passionate, confident and motivated leaders who build community with their cheerful disposition and relentless determination. Unfortunately, they tend to think after they leap which often results in lessons learned the hard way (council tax freeze?).
On the plus side, they live life to the fullest and can often be seen “excelling on the sports field” or “speeding down the highway” (or Holyrood corridors on scooters).
The future might look a bit shaky for Yousaf at the moment but his reputation is predicted to grow more positive and there are prospects for significant advancement.
Cosmopolitan predicts that if he works hard he can expect “big rewards”. Roll on the General Election.
RISHI SUNAK: TAURUS
The UK Prime Minister may be worried about losing power but Astrology.com has the comforting advice that he shouldn’t worry about change holding him back.
“It’s important to stay open-minded about changes,” it chirps. “Even though they might feel strange or different, they could lead you to wonderful and exciting places you’ve never explored.
“These changes might be the key to finding something really rewarding and special. So, in 2024, don’t be afraid to take those steps into the unknown.”
The Allure website also warns Taureans to “expect the unexpected”. These events will prompt them “to reconsider” what they want in relationships or career paths.
SHONA ROBISON: GEMINI
Scotland's Deputy First Minister and Finance Secretary hasn’t had an easy ride this year with the headache of trying to make up for the £1.4 billion shortfall in the Scottish Budget largely caused by Tory mismanagement, cuts and inflation.
Cosmopolitan’s horoscope has words of encouragement for her, however, advising her to “keep at it”.
“Keep grafting and putting in the effort, even in places you feel fatigued or fed up,” it says. “Don’t give up on things in 2024. The rewards are worthwhile and this year is just one of those times that you have to dig deep, summon the fortitude to persist and crack on.
A breakthrough will emerge in January that hugely helps you get ahead and bust some moves. Further rewards emerge in May and September.”
KEIR STARMER: VIRGO
Interestingly, Cosmopolitan is predicting he will have to work long hours and/or adapt to a new job, although it doesn’t mention the General Election.
Indastro predicts news for Virgos which will be “very special”.
“You will make great progress in all aspects of life this year,” it says. “There will be challenges but they will bring great learnings for your personal and professional life, which will steer you in the right direction.”
The Allure website intriguingly predicts that although the year will start with hard work there will be new opportunities in 2024 but he should avoid making independent judgements as his vision “could be clouded”.
“There will be huge growth in business or at work, but that will also translate into huge responsibilities, which may create some mental stress – hence, try to stay calm under all circumstances,” it cautions.
Starmer should also “brace” himself for communication mishaps and even some “unexpected” reconnections with people from his past. Jeremy Corbyn is not named.
ANAS SARWAR: PISCES
The leader of Labour’s branch office in Scotland must be continually frustrated at Starmer’s right-wing stance and unfortunately, the Astrosage website predicts that conflicts in relationships could escalate in 2024.
It should be noted that Pisces is also Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie’s star sign but there is no indication this means there will be cracks in his relationship with the SNP or his co-leader Lorna Slater.
Whatever undercurrents may be going on, the Hindustan Times horoscope recommends making things “more organised where they might have been messy before”.
The prediction goes on to say that the early part of the year could be “disruptive for career advancement” but around the month of May “opportunities may be coming”.
It continues: “Your hopes and desires will also materialise and overall, your career prospects seem to be very good.”
ALEX COLE-HAMILTON: LEO
The Scottish LibDem leader’s goal in the coming year is to “stay cheerful”, according to the Hindustan Times.
“When you face tough situations, see them as chances to become a better version of yourself,” it advises. “When times get tough, you might try repeating a positive saying or doing things that make you happy.”
Meanwhile, the Ganesha website warns that while he may have many ideas and strategies floating around in his mind to strengthen his finances, they could be misleading.
“If you are doing business, some impulsive actions or decisions might bring problems,” it cautions.
Perhaps a sign to hold fire on any further Airbnb offerings.
NICOLA STURGEON: CANCER
Few would have predicted what was in store for the former First Minister last year and unfortunately, 2024 doesn’t look like it will start off too well for her either. Allure website is predicting another “chilly year” for friendships so it looks as though the rocks will melt in the sun before there is any reconciliation with former friend and colleague Alex Salmond.
No doubt she is hoping for a less dramatic year than 2023 but Allure warns that “there may be unexpected shake-ups or drama brewing” in the first couple of months.
The future looks brighter for Sturgeon towards the summer when there will be good news regarding her career and creative prospects. (Another book deal?)
Astrosage also predicts that while marital tension could characterise the start of the year, it will be followed by a “more harmonious phase”. Phew.
DOUGLAS ROSS: AQUARIUS
THE leader of the Scottish Tories is not known for his humanitarian efforts but the Allure website advises he should engage in them “more actively”. He also needs to ditch bad habits, “dampen aggression” and “embrace transformation”. You can but hope.
The Stylecaster website meanwhile warns him not to let his ego get the best of him and predicts he may see financial changes in the autumn which could lead him to take stock of his bank account, his personal possessions and all the items he places value in.
Keep your eyes out for Holyrood legislation limiting politicians to just the three jobs.
The end of the year could also bring long-standing conflicts in his relationships to a head.
