Kemi Badenoch, a British-Nigerian politician, has been elected as the new leader of the Conservative Party, defeating Robert Jenrick with a vote tally of 53,806 to 41,388.
Her victory in the election held on Saturday marks her as the new leader of the UK Conservatives, succeeding Rishi Sunak, who stepped down following the party’s poor performance in July’s general election.
At 44 years old, Badenoch triumphed in a close contest against former immigration minister Robert Jenrick, garnering 57 percent of the votes from party members. As the official leader of the opposition, she will challenge Labour’s Keir Starmer in the House of Commons during the traditional Prime Minister’s Questions every Wednesday.
Expressing her gratitude, Badenoch called it an “enormous honour” to lead the party she cherishes, acknowledging the challenges ahead. “I hope to repay the debt I owe to this party,” she stated.
She candidly recognized past mistakes, noting, “We have to be honest about the fact that we made mistakes and let standards slip.” Badenoch emphasized the need for a renewed focus and stated, “It is time to get down to business.”
In her speech, she thanked Rishi Sunak, remarking, “No one worked harder in such difficult times,” and wished him the “very best for the future.” She also paid tribute to Robert Jenrick, commending his “energy and determination” and expressing confidence that he will continue to play a key role in the party for years to come.
Badenoch outlined the responsibilities ahead for the Conservatives, stating, “Our first responsibility is to hold this Labour government to account.” She added, “Our second, equally important task, is to prepare for government in the coming years.”
She stressed the necessity for clear policies and a plan for implementation, declaring, “That enormous job begins today.” Badenoch concluded by emphasizing that her focus extends beyond the Conservative Party itself, aiming to reconnect with those who have distanced themselves and to attract new members.
