UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak resigns
Following a major election defeat, Rishi Sunak apologized to his country and initiated a new leadership race. Sunak will visit Buckingham Palace for a final meeting with the King.
After the significant loss, Sunak acknowledged voters' "anger and frustration" and the clear desire for change. In his speech, Sunak said, "I did my best in this role, but you have given a clear signal that the UK government needs to change. Your judgment is the only one that matters."
Sunak also announced that he would step down as Conservative Party leader after arrangements for his successor are made. The party is expected to win only 121 seats, its worst result in history.
Labour Party's Victory
Sunak congratulated Keir Starmer on the Labour Party's substantial victory, stating, "His successes in this role will be our successes, and I extend my best wishes to him and his family. Despite our disagreements during the campaign, he is a man I respect and is dedicated to public service."
Before officially becoming Prime Minister, Starmer went to Buckingham Palace for his final meeting with the King.
Sunak's Legacy
During his tenure, Sunak highlighted his achievements, including reducing inflation to the Bank of England's target of 2%, lowering mortgage interest rates, and strengthening the UK's international position. He cited support for Ukraine and negotiating the Windsor framework for post-Brexit trade arrangements in Northern Ireland.
Sunak expressed his belief that the country is "safer, stronger, and more secure" than it was 20 months ago and more "prosperous, fair, and resilient" compared to 2010.
Reflecting on his historic status as the UK's first British Asian Prime Minister, Sunak noted, "One of Britain’s most remarkable features is how ordinary it is that I can become Prime Minister two generations after my grandparents came here with very little. And that I can watch my two young daughters light Diwali lamps in Downing Street."
He thanked his family for their support and sacrifices and, after finishing his speech, left hand in hand with his wife, Akshata Murty.
Sunak had become Conservative Party leader unopposed in October 2022 after Liz Truss's 45-day tenure. He has pledged to remain as an MP until the end of the current parliamentary term.
