Priti Patel to Contest Conservative Party Leadership Race
Former Home Secretary, Priti Patel, is gearing up to enter the Conservative Party leadership race to succeed Rishi Sunak as Opposition Leader in the House of Commons. Patel, a 52-year-old British Indian MP, has quietly assembled a team and key supporters to prepare for the upcoming election process, following Sunak’s resignation in light of their party’s recent defeat. The influential 1922 Committee of backbench Tory MPs will oversee the selection of Sunak’s successor.
Known for her advocacy as Indian Diaspora Champion and previous Cabinet roles under Theresa May and Boris Johnson, Patel’s leadership bid signals a strong challenge within the party. With experience in high-profile government roles, Patel aims to bring her unique perspective to the fore and has gained support from various quarters, including notable donors.
If Patel joins the race, she will likely face competition from other former Cabinet ministers like Suella Braverman and Robert Jenrick. The race is heating up, with shadow minister Kemi Badenoch emerging as a formidable contender. The 1922 Committee is set to define the guidelines for the leadership contest in the near future.
Published on: 17 July 2024, 11:45 IST