Former British Finance Minister, Rishi Sunak, has announced his bid to replace Boris Johnson who resigned as Conservative Party Leader and UK Prime Minister on Thursday, July 7.
After a majority of ministers quit from government, Boris was forced to step down but announced that he would be open to holding the position temporarily to fill the power vacuum and lead the transition.
Sunak whose father is a Kenyan announced that he was in the running to replace Boris after leading other lawmakers in tendering their resignations.
In an official announcement released on Friday, July 8, the Briton insisted that he not only sought to succeed Boris as UK Prime Minister but also as Conservative leader.
"Someone has to grip this moment and make the right decisions. That’s why I’m standing to be the next leader of the Conservative Party and your Prime Minister," Rishi announced.
"Do we confront this moment with honesty seriousness and determination or do we tell ourselves comforting fairy tales that might make us feel better in the moment but will leave our children worse off tomorrow," he added.
Despite having Kenyan roots, Rishi has received a lot of support from the Britons which has catapulted his steady rise in UK politics.
His first stab at active politics was in 2015, rising the ranks to win re-election in 2017 and 2019.
"I have been fortunate to enjoy a successful business career. I co-founded a large investment firm, working with companies from Silicon Valley to Bangalore. Then I used that experience to help small and entrepreneurial British companies grow successfully.
"From working in my mum’s tiny chemist shop to my experience building large businesses, I have seen first-hand how politicians should support free enterprise and innovation to ensure our future prosperity," Sunak described his growth and political career.
He joined UK Attorney General, Suella Braverman, who is also in the race to succeed Boris. Suella, whose father is a Kenyan, noted that she would be honoured to be the next Prime Minister.
"If there is a leadership contest, I will put my name. I love this country, my parents came here with absolutely nothing, and it is the Britons that gave them hope," she told the Guardian.
Suella also distanced herself from shortcomings witnessed in Boris's administration.
