Portrait of Kemi Badenoch
Aged 44, Kemi Badenoch made an impressive entrance into politics. Born in London to Nigerian parents, she grew up between the United States and Lagos. She studied at Sussex University, where she graduated with a Master of Engineering degree in 2003. After working in various jobs, she entered the House of Commons in 2017 as the MP (Member of Parliament) for Saffron Walden. Her carrier has been marked by her commitment to both liberal and conservative policies and her opposition to the excesses of the welfare state, by criticising the British welfare system. Her rapid success inside the party is a testament of her political ambition. She succeeded to Rishi Sunak, after winning against Robert Jenrick. Her promise of renewal resonated with Conservative party members. They expect her to restore confidence after years of internal divisions and a crushing defeat in the last elections.
Difficulties within the Conservative Party
The Conservative Party has been through one of its most profound crises for a few years. The highest point of this crisis seemed to be the election results last July. It was the party’s worst electoral defeat in decades, only winning 121 (250 fewer than in 2019) out of the total of 650. This is due to several factors such as the chaotic management of the Brexit, internal tension regarding social and economic policies, and the loss of credibility with voters because of the corruption scandals. The Party lost the support of traditional voters. Indeed, the preferred to turn to the Labour Party, he Liberal Democrats, or to a more radical option : Reform UK. The Conservative Party also lost many members, dropping from 172 000 in 2022 to 131 000 in 2024
Kemi Badenoch’s political ideas and propositions
In this complex situation, Kemi Badenoch suggests a return to “fundamental principles” of the Conservative Party. Thus, a more liberal economic policy, lower taxes and a reduced role for the State in the economic sector. She also advocates a more traditional vision of society, especially in the areas of immigration and social policies. Badenoch seeks to set up a tougher stance on immigration, particularly to limit illegal arrivals. She also proposes a radical overhaul to improve public services, especially education and healthcare. Concerning societal issues, she is strongly opposed to the “woke” agenda, believing that it distracts politicians from real national issues. She is also known for her very closed attitude Towards transgender people. Finally, Badenoch envisions to reenforce the United Kingdom’s position on the international stage and aims to pursue a “complete Brexit” policy in relations to Europe, despite its very poor management in recent years.
The conservative party is therefore turning to the right. Although Kemi Badenoch’s program is in line with those of her predecessors, it is still heavily influenced by traditional conservative ideas, on which the party had become more open and indulgent in recent years. It remains to be seen whether she will succeed in meeting the challenges facing her, particularly that of winning back lost voters.
