He reacted after the party confirmed he was the only candidate to succeed Humza Yousaf, who announced one week ago he was stepping down as SNP leader and Scottish First Minister.
Mr Swinney, 60, is now expected to become Scotland's seventh first minister but must first win the backing of MSPs in a vote at Holyrood.
That ballot could take place on Wednesday, with Mr Swinney likely to be officially in place in the top job in Scottish politics the next day.
He posted: "I will give all that I have to serve my party and my country." In his first speech as the new SNP leader, he added: "I will always seek, with respect and courtesy, to persuade people of the case for independence.
"All I ask of those who oppose that vision is they also act with the same courtesy and respect.
"That means independence is not a reason for them to refuse to work with us to build the economy, support jobs and improve the health service.
This story is from the May 07, 2024 edition of Daily Express.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 07, 2024 edition of Daily Express.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
A RED LETTER DAY FOR RUBEN
Hojlund hits two to hand Amorim happy home start
SPURS DENIED LATE ON BY MATS FINISH
Hummels goal makes point for Italians
British soldier who spied for Iran is facing life in prison
Traitor passed on SAS names
'My CV is good so give me a chance'
FRANK TELLS FANS TO LOOK AT HIS RECORD
Bash's big about turn
SHOAIB SAVOURS RISE
Ding-dong over chiming clock
Town hall broke its own noise limits
Food banks should never be the norm
But for now, they remain vital to millions of people
Victim of drink and drug driver is stark reminder of dangers
THE harrowing story of a police worker killed by a drink and drug driver on her colleagues' \"darkest day\" is being used in a powerful Christmas campaign.
Starmer, now smell the anger over your stinky farmers' tax
Sewage sludge delivery protest
Bidding kicks off for new Rooney TV show
COLEEN Rooney may be wowing viewers on I'm a Celebrity...but husband Wayne is making television moves all of his own away from the jungle.
