Kemi Badenoch a remporté la course à la direction des conservateurs, battant Robert Jenrick avec 53 806 voix. Ancienne secrétaire d’État au Commerce, elle succède à Rishi Sunak après la défaite électorale des Tories. En tant que nouvelle leader, elle prévoit de rétablir les valeurs conservatrices et de réunir le parti. Elle s’est exprimée sur la nécessité d’une honnêteté franche concernant les erreurs passées. Badenoch, soutenue par des figures de proue du parti, se prépare à affronter Keir Starmer lors des prochaines questions aux Premier ministre.
Kemi Badenoch has emerged victorious in the Conservative leadership contest, defeating her opponent Robert Jenrick in a closely contested battle.
The candid and determined MP was declared the new leader of the Conservative Party this morning, garnering 53,806 votes.
At 44 years old, Kemi triumphed over Robert Jenrick, who secured 41,388 votes, achieving a turnout of 72.8 percent.
This former Business Secretary takes over from Rishi Sunak, following the Tories’ significant defeat in the General Election just four months ago.
Bob Blackman, the chairman of the 1922 Committee, expressed excitement about the milestone, stating, « Isn’t it wonderful to have another female leader and the first black leader in our party? Another glass ceiling shattered. »
Her immediate task will be to officially appoint a new Shadow Cabinet from a reduced group of only 121 Conservative MPs.
As leader of the opposition, one of Kemi’s first duties will be to challenge Sir Keir Starmer during the upcoming Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday.
After the announcement, Kemi stated, « Our party plays a vital role in the success of our country, but to make our voices heard, we must embrace honesty.
« We need to acknowledge our mistakes. We must admit that we have allowed standards to decline. It is time for transparency.
« We must stand firm on our principles, devise a plan for our future, reset our political strategies, and provide our party and our country with the fresh start they deserve.
« It’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to work. Renewal is necessary. »
She conveyed to her party, « The challenge before us is both daunting yet straightforward.
« Our primary duty as His Majesty’s loyal Opposition is to ensure that this Labour Government is held accountable. Equally vital is our preparation for governance in the coming years.
« By the next election, we must present not only a comprehensive set of Conservative commitments that resonate with the British public, but also a well-defined strategy for implementation.
« Our approach should aim to transform this country by reforming governmental operations.
« The Prime Minister is realizing too late the risks of lacking such a strategy.
« Our significant undertaking starts today. »
Kemi also expressed gratitude to her family and former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
In her speech, she remarked, « I have many individuals to thank, especially my family, and most notably my husband Hamish.
« Hamish, I couldn’t have achieved this without you. I also want to extend my appreciation to Rishi—no one could’ve worked harder during such trying times.
« Thank you for all your efforts. I would also like to acknowledge Robert Jenrick. Rob, you have made a lasting impression on us all.
« Our differences are few, and you have an important role to play in our party for years to come. »
Many Tory MPs compare her to Margaret Thatcher, suggesting she will present a strong challenge to the legal-minded Prime Minister.
A prominent opponent of what she terms ‘woke’ policies, Kemi has voiced criticism regarding transgender rights, specifically concerning self-identification and gender-neutral bathrooms.
Her campaign for leadership aimed to revive traditional Conservative values.
Kemi commented on the party’s prior governance strategy, stating they had « spoke conservatively but governed from the left, » acting too similarly to Labour while in office.
The MP for North West Essex received endorsements from notable figures like Sir David Davis and Sir Iain Duncan Smith, in addition to rising stars Claire Coutinho and Laura Trott.
During her campaign, she attracted attention for labeling maternity pay as « excessive » and encouraging mothers to accept « more personal responsibility. »
Rishi Sunak congratulated Kemi on her leadership victory, urging party unity behind her.
He stated, « Congratulations to Kemi Badenoch on being elected Conservative Party leader.
« I have full confidence that she will be an exceptional leader for our party. She will rejuvenate our party, uphold Conservative ideals, and challenge Labour effectively.
« Let us come together in support of her. »
In a message on X, Prime Minister Sir Keir expressed his congratulations: « Congratulations to Kemi Badenoch on becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party.
« This marks a proud moment for our nation as we welcome the first Black leader of a Westminster party.
« I look forward to collaborating with you and your party for the benefit of the