National Telescope national telescope newspaper
Kemi Badenoch, the former British Business Secretary, has been elected as the new leader of the Conservative Party, defeating Robert Jenrick in the final round of voting. Badenoch’s victory marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first Black woman to lead a major political party in the United Kingdom.
Badenoch takes over from Rishi Sunak as leader of the opposition, having secured 53,806 votes compared to Jenrick’s 41,388. This change comes at a challenging time for the Conservative Party, which is still reeling from its worst election defeat in history.
In her victory speech, Badenoch expressed her commitment to returning the party to its “first principles” and outlined plans to initiate a series of reviews to develop a new policy platform. As the sixth Conservative leader in less than nine years, she faces the daunting task of uniting a divided party.
“The time has come to tell the truth,” Badenoch declared to her supporters. “It is time to get down to business, it is time to renew.”
Known for her straightforward approach, Badenoch has gained a loyal following among party members. Her stance on identity politics and her push for reduced government influence resonate with a faction within the party that seeks a decisive shift to the right to regain the trust of disillusioned voters.
Badenoch’s tenure as trade minister was marked by tense exchanges with media personalities and officials, yet this has strengthened her support among party members skeptical of institutional influences.
Reflecting on her new role, Badenoch stated, “The task ahead is tough but clear. Our first duty as His Majesty’s loyal opposition is to hold this Labour government accountable. Our second priority is to prepare for government in the coming years.”
