UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak Concedes
Rishi Sunak acknowledged the Labour Party’s triumph, stating, “The Labour Party has won this general election, and I’ve called Keir Starmer to congratulate him on his victory.” He expressed regret to his party, saying, “I am sorry,” during the announcement of his re-election from a Yorkshire constituency.
Early Elections and Conservative Party’s Challenges
Sunak had called for early elections despite the current House of Commons term running until December. This decision came amidst growing challenges faced by both the party and the country. The Conservative Party’s struggles were evident earlier this year, losing 10 city councils and approximately 400 councillors in local body elections in May, following a series of parliamentary election defeats.
Conservative Party’s Decline
The Conservative Party’s dominance, which began in 2010, has faced increasing turmoil. During Sunak’s less than two-year tenure, the party saw five different Prime Ministers: David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Elizabeth Truss, and Rishi Sunak himself. The last five years were marked by internal conflicts, with Truss’s term lasting only 49 days.
Rishi Sunak’s Political Journey
Rishi Sunak, first elected as the Conservative MP for Richmond, Yorkshire, in 2015, is known for his pro-Brexit stance. He secured his first ministerial position under Theresa May and later supported Boris Johnson’s bid for Prime Minister. Sunak became the Treasury minister in 2019 and was subsequently promoted to Chancellor after Sajid Javid’s resignation.
Sunak’s Tenure as Chancellor
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sunak introduced measures like the furlough scheme through a series of mini Budgets, which were widely praised for saving numerous jobs and businesses. His handling of the economic crisis made him a frontrunner to succeed Johnson as the Conservative leader.
Leadership Battle with Liz Truss
In 2022, following Boris Johnson’s resignation amid scandals, both Sunak and Liz Truss vied for the Prime Minister position. Truss initially won but had to resign after six weeks due to an internal revolt. Sunak then succeeded her as Prime Minister in October 2022, gaining the support of around 200 Conservative MPs.
The Labour Party’s overwhelming win in the recent election signals a new political chapter for the UK, ending the Conservative Party’s long-standing rule.