Key Highlights
- Kemi Badenoch has been rebuilding the Conservative Party since her first year as leader.
- The party faces criticism from MPs for not effectively connecting with voters.
- A number of senior figures have defected to Reform UK, including Jake Berry and David Jones.
- Despite efforts, polling shows that only 12% believe Badenoch is a prime minister in waiting.
Kemi Badenoch’s Leadership Challenges
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has been at the helm for one year since her victory over Robert Jenrick, marking a new era of leadership following the party’s heavy defeat in the 2024 general election. Badenoch has stated that she is “rebuilding” the Conservative Party, its principles, and its plan for Britain.
Rebuilding the Party
“This first year of my leadership has been about rebuilding,” Badenoch declared, emphasizing her commitment to restoring the party’s values after a period of defeat. She highlighted that the Conservatives now stand for “responsibility, fairness, competence and pride in our nation,” aiming to provide an alternative to Labour’s policies.
Policy Developments
In October, Badenoch surprised many by announcing a key policy change: scrapping stamp duty on the purchase of main homes. This move was seen as a significant boost for the Conservatives and their leader after what some termed a “lost year.” However, backbench Conservative MPs could potentially challenge her leadership in the near future, as the grace period to submit no-confidence letters expires.
Public Perception
The effectiveness of Badenoch’s leadership is questioned by polling data from YouGov. Only 12% of respondents believe she is a prime minister in waiting, while 62% do not share this view. Despite these challenges, a majority (54%) of Conservative members still believe she is doing a good job as party leader.
Criticism and Defections
Badenoch has faced criticism from anonymous MPs who are disappointed with the lack of progress in connecting with voters. Additionally, key figures such as former Welsh Secretary David Jones and ex-Conservative chairman Jake Berry have defected to Reform UK, a party founded by Nigel Farage. Another Conservative, Danny Kruger, also left the party.
Future Challenges
The Conservative Party continues to face internal challenges, including ambitious frontbenchers like former shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick who may vie for leadership in the future. Badenoch’s tenure is marked by a need to balance rebuilding with maintaining party unity and delivering tangible policy results.
Kemi Badenoch remains focused on her vision for the Conservative Party, but the road ahead is fraught with challenges as she navigates internal dissent and external criticisms.
