john swinney
The former deputy first minister was crowned without a contest.
The veteran MSP is the clear favourite to take over from Humza Yousaf as Kate Forbes announced she would not stand.
The race is on to succeed Humza Yousaf after he resigned.
Education secretary John Swinney's announcement comes after a computer algorithm lowered the poorest students' marks more than those of their richer peers.
John Swinney, who is also deputy first minister, could face a vote of no confidence.