Kemi Badenoch, elected leader of the British Conservative Party on Saturday, is the first black woman to such a position in the United Kingdom, after a vote by activists who chose this defender of “real conservation” and strict politics in immigration matters.
After a three-month campaign, this “anti-awake” figure was elected the poll’s favorite with almost 57% of the vote, beating Robert Jenrick, also located on the right of the party.
“Proud moment”
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents and raised in Africa, she was the first black woman to lead a major British political party. Labor Prime Minister Keir Starmer said X had “made our country proud”.
The election was called after the resignation of former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, due to the Conservatives’ historic victory in the last legislative elections on 4 July.
The 44-year-old engineer by training, who has already tried unsuccessfully to take over the Conservative party leadership in 2022, will now have a lot to do to revive the largely weakened Tories after their debacle recent electoral history. legislative elections.
Party reduced to 121 delegates
The party, reduced to 121 MPs, lost two-thirds of its seats in the House of Commons. Voters approved him after 14 years in power that were marred by a disappointing Brexit, austerity policies undermining public services and scandals under Boris Johnson.
Her predecessor Rishi Sunak called on Tories to ”unify behind her” to “fight Labour”, calling her a “great leader”. Boris Johnson praised her “courage” and the “dynamism” she brings. However, many doubt his ability to unify and rebuild the party and the merits of his shift to the right.
A reputation as an outspoken binder
Kemi Badenoch arrives at the head of the Tories with a reputation as an outspoken activist, who appeals to the activist base but sometimes even finds herself in their own camp.
A member of the party since the 2000s, she has risen rapidly through the ranks since being elected as an MP in 2017. A strong supporter of Brexit, as of 2019 she held a number of secondary ministerial posts under Johnson, serving as Minister Trade under Liz Truss then. and Rishi Sunak.
During her campaign, she advocated a return to “real conservatism” without detailing her program.
After a legislative election in which the far-right Reform UK party rose to power, the topic of immigration was at the forefront of the campaign, which Kemi Badenoch put at the heart of her program by proposing a tougher policy. His controversial statements, such as “not all cultures are equal”, sparked controversy.
Known for her conservatism, she also has a strong stance on the culture wars particularly related to the rights of LGBT+ people or ethnic minorities, and expresses her skepticism towards the carbon neutrality set by the United Kingdom.
Interview: Kemi Badenoch’s Historic Election as Leader of the British Conservative Party
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good morning, and welcome to this exclusive interview! Today, we are diving into a remarkable shift in British politics with Kemi Badenoch’s election as the leader of the Conservative Party. Joining us is Dr. Lydia Montgomery, a political analyst specializing in British politics and diversity in leadership. Dr. Montgomery, thank you for being here!
Dr. Lydia Montgomery (DLM): Thank you for having me! This is indeed a pivotal moment in UK politics.
TNE: Kemi Badenoch is making history as the first black woman to lead a major British political party. What does her election signify for the UK and the Conservative Party?
DLM: Badenoch’s election is monumental, not only because of her racial and gender identity but also in terms of representation in a leadership role traditionally dominated by white men. It signals to many that change is possible within a party that has often been seen as out of touch. This move could inspire a new wave of inclusivity in British politics.
TNE: Indeed, her campaign emphasized “real conservation” and a strict approach to immigration. How do you perceive her policies shaping the party’s future?
DLM: Badenoch’s platform appeals to the party’s right-wing base, especially in the context of rising concerns over immigration and identity politics. While her views might alienate some centrists or more moderate conservatives, they resonate with a significant portion of the electorate who feel concerned about social cohesion and national identity. It will be crucial for her to balance these views with the need for broad public support.
TNE: She won nearly 57% of the vote after a three-month campaign. What might this strong support indicate about the current mood within the Conservative Party?
DLM: The decisive vote suggests that party activists are ready for change. After significant electoral losses and a long stretch of leadership struggles, the party seems to be craving new direction. Her leadership could also signify a shift away from the establishment figures who have struggled to regain public trust.
TNE: Following Rishi Sunak’s resignation, Badenoch faces the monumental task of reviving the Conservatives, who’ve seen their number of MPs dramatically reduced. What challenges will she have to navigate?
DLM: The challenges are immense. With only 121 MPs, the party needs to reconnect with the electorate while addressing internal divisions. A major focus will need to be on re-establishing credibility after the controversies surrounding Brexit and austerity measures. Badenoch has to appeal to both the core supporters who elected her and the broader electorate to ensure the Tories remain relevant.
TNE: How do you think her background as the daughter of Nigerian immigrants and her upbringing will influence her leadership style and her policies?
DLM: Her diverse background provides her with a unique perspective on issues of race, culture, and class, which could enrich the party’s dialogue. Her awareness of these issues could help bridge gaps between the party and minority communities, though it’s essential she remains mindful of the varying views within her own party regarding immigration and multiculturalism.
TNE: As she takes on this historic role, what message do you think Kemi Badenoch sends to young women and people of color aspiring to enter politics?
DLM: Badenoch’s rise is undoubtedly empowering. It sends the message that anyone, regardless of background, can lead at the highest levels of government if they are determined and resilient. This could encourage more people from diverse backgrounds to engage in politics and public service, contributing to a more representative and inclusive political landscape in the UK.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Montgomery, for your insights! Kemi Badenoch’s leadership will surely be a focus in the coming months. We look forward to seeing how her tenure evolves.
DLM: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for British politics!