Rishi Sunak resigns as Conservative Party leader after election loss

LONDON: Former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has resigned as the leader of the Conservative Party following Labour’s sweeping victory in the general election on Thursday.

“I am sorry,” Sunak stated as he announced his resignation. He clarified that he would not step down immediately but would do so once the Tory leadership race commences.

Speaking from the steps of 10 Downing Street, Sunak said, “I would like to say, first and foremost, I am sorry. I have given this job my all. But you have sent a clear signal that the government of the United Kingdom must change, and yours is the only judgment that matters.”

Sunak, who was elected UK Prime Minister in October 2022, made history as the country’s first British-Asian PM and the youngest in over 200 years. He succeeded Liz Truss in the role.

Taking responsibility for the Conservative Party’s substantial defeat, he remarked, “I have heard your anger, your disappointment, and I take responsibility for this loss.”

The Conservatives have suffered their worst loss on record, with significant portions of the country turning red. Sunak described the election outcome as a “sobering verdict.”

“It pains me to think how many good colleagues who contributed so much to their communities and our country will now no longer sit in the House of Commons. I thank them for their hard work and their service,” he added.

Sunak emphasized the importance of the Conservative Party rebuilding and taking up its “crucial role in opposition, professionally and effectively.”

Reflecting on his leadership, Sunak noted achievements such as bringing inflation “back to target,” reducing mortgage rates, and returning growth. He also highlighted the Conservative Party’s efforts in enhancing the UK’s standing globally, rebuilding relations with allies, leading support for Ukraine, and fostering transformative technologies.