Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, conceded defeat on Friday morning ahead of the Labour Party’s official victory announcement.
In a broadcast from Downing Street, Mr. Sunak accepted full responsibility for the loss and pledged a smooth transition of power.
“The British people have delivered a sobering verdict tonight, there is much to learn… and I take responsibility for the loss,” Mr. Sunak stated, as reported by the BBC.
He acknowledged the public’s dissatisfaction and announced his intention to step down once the Conservative Party selects a new leader.
Labour leader Keir Starmer is set to become the next Prime Minister after his forthcoming meeting with the King.
Labour secured a decisive victory in the general election, ending 14 years of Conservative governance. As of Friday morning, Labour had won 412 seats compared to the Conservatives’ 121.
Notably, several MPs, including former Prime Minister Liz Truss, lost their seats.
Mr. Sunak is expected to meet King Charles to officially resign from his position.
In an earlier statement, Mr. Sunak apologized for what has been described as the Conservatives’ worst electoral performance in modern history.
“I have heard your anger, disappointment, and I take responsibility for this loss,” he said, expressing regret over the number of colleagues losing their seats in the House of Commons.
Reflecting on his tenure, Mr. Sunak remarked that he had dedicated himself fully to the role but recognized the public’s demand for change.
“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,” he said.
