The True Challenge: why Motherhood Trumps Political Power for Kate Forbes

In a candid revelation, Kate Forbes, the former Deputy First Minister of Scotland, admits that being a mother is far more challenging than her political career. Managing a demanding government role, a young family, and a lengthy commute to parliament has led her to prioritize family over politics.

Forbes, who once shone brightly in the Scottish National Party, dropped a bombshell decision three months ago, announcing that she would not run in the upcoming Scottish election. She unequivocally stated, “From the very depths of my heart, I have no intentions of coming back to politics,” emphasizing that there is no political position big enough to lure her back.

Reflecting on her journey, she highlights the significant logistical challenges she faced returning to work after maternity leave, especially after the birth of her daughter Naomi. Despite the Scottish Parliament’s claims of being family-friendly, Forbes has criticized the limited creche facilities, which are only available for a few hours a day. This limited support, she argues, makes it increasingly difficult for female politicians with young children to balance their responsibilities.

Since announcing her exit from politics, many women have shared their struggles with her, recognizing the unique difficulties of balancing a political career and motherhood. Forbes emphasizes, “being a mum is harder” than serving as Deputy First Minister, reaffirming the emotional and logistical hurdles parents face.

She also reflects on her leadership ambitions and the barriers women encounter in political realms, noting that a woman could potentially lead Scotland, but only with adequate support in place for family commitments. Forbes’s journey illustrates the critical challenges women in politics grapple with, especially when trying to balance career aspirations with the demands of family life.