Welsh Labour: Ex-minister Mick Antoniw to leave Senedd next year

Antoniw, 70, a former counsel general and minister for the constitution, is of Ukrainian origin and well known for his support for Ukraine in its war with Russia.

A Ukrainian speaker, he has paid regular visits to the country delivering aid since it was invaded by Russia nearly two years ago.

Before being elected to the Senedd in 2011, which was then known as the Welsh Assembly, he worked as a solicitor.

On Friday, he issued a written statement thanking his constituents for their support over the years, saying it had been the “greatest honour of my life” to serve them.

“It is with a heavy heart that I have decided not to seek re-election in 2026,” he said.

“By the time of the next elections in May 2026 I will have served for 15 years.

“This is on top of 35 years work as a trade union lawyer.

“I will be approaching 72 years of age and have come to the view that now is the time for fresh blood, new energy and new progressive ideas for the future of Wales and the people of Pontypridd and our new constituency.”

Antoniw said he would “continue to be politically active, particularly in the field of equality, human rights, constitutional reform and international issues” after leaving the Welsh Parliament.

The May 2026 poll will see the Senedd expand from the current 60 to 96 members elected using a more proportional electoral system.

There will be 16 larger constituencies with 6 members each chosen via a closed list voting system.