Kemi Badenoch has been elected as the leader of the United Kingdom’s Conservative Party, becoming the first Black woman to lead a major political party in the UK.
Badenoch, of Nigerian descent, defeated Robert Jenrick in the final round of voting, receiving 53,806 votes to Jenrick’s 41,388.
The Conservative Party confirmed her victory on Saturday via their official X page, stating, “ANNOUNCED: @KemiBadenoch has been elected Leader of the Conservative Party.”
In her reaction,, Badenoch, who according to BBC is the first Black woman to lead a major political party in the UK, said the task is “tough but simple.”
Our first responsibility as His Majesty’s loyal opposition is to hold this Labour government to account. Our second is no less important; it is to prepare over the course of the next few years for government.
She stated, “The task that stands before us is tough but simple. Our first responsibility as His Majesty’s loyal opposition is to hold this Labour government to account. Our second is no less important; it is to prepare over the course of the next few years for government.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer congratulated Badenoch, highlighting the historical significance of her appointment, stating, “The first Black leader of a Westminster party is a proud moment for our country. I look forward to working with you and your party in the interests of the British people.”
Badenoch was born in Wimbledon, but spent her childhood in Nigeria before returning to the UK as a teenager.
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