Rishi Sunak Resigns As UK Prime Minister, Confirms He'll Quit As Tory Leader, But Not Immediately

Rishi Sunak resigned as UK Prime Minister after the Conservative Party's election defeat. Sunak said he will resign as Tory leader, but not immediately.

File Photo of Outgoing UK PM Rishi Sunak (Source: Getty Images)

Source : Getty Images

In his farewell address outside 10 Downing Street, outgoing British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Friday apologised to the public following a resounding defeat for the Conservatives in the UK general election. Following his brief speech, Sunak met King Charles III to formally step down as Prime Minister. "This is a difficult day at the end of a number of difficult days. This is the best country in the world, and it is thanks entirely to you, the British people," Sunak stated in his last speech as UK PM.

He expressed his pride in the country's progress, highlighting significant achievements such as the Windsor Framework post-Brexit trade arrangement and the restoration of devolved government in Northern Ireland, the BBC reported.

Reflecting on his tenure, Sunak asserted, "The country is now stronger. I believe the UK is more prosperous, fairer, and resilient than in 2010." Despite his efforts, he admitted, "To the country, 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 judgement that matters."

I have given this job my all. But you have sent a clear message, and yours is the only judgement that matters.

This is a difficult day, but I leave this job honoured to have been Prime Minister of the best country in the world.https://t.co/EhNsfIaGWM

— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) July 5, 2024

Sunak Announces He Intends To Resign As Tory Leader

Sunak took full responsibility for the electoral loss, expressing regret to the candidates and campaigners who worked tirelessly but ultimately fell short. "I have heard your anger, disappointment, and I take responsibility for this loss," he acknowledged. He announced that his resignation as Tory leader would take place after formal arrangements for a successor are made. "It is important that, after 14 years in government, the Conservative party rebuilds, but also that it takes up its crucial role in opposition professionally and effectively," he remarked, as quoted by the BBC.

Sunak paid tribute to his rival, Keir Starmer, describing him as a "decent, public-spirited man who I respect." He extended his best wishes to Starmer and his family as they prepare to move into Downing Street, acknowledging the challenges ahead. "He and his family deserve the very best of our understanding as they make the huge transition to their new lives behind this door, and as he grapples with this most demanding of jobs in an increasingly unstable world."

 He reiterated the accomplishments of the Conservatives during their 14 years in power, stating, "The UK is more prosperous, fairer, and resilient than in 2010." 

Sunak's departure marks the end of a challenging period for the Conservative Party, now tasked with rebuilding and fulfilling its role in opposition.