Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, has declared his intention to step down as the leader of the Conservative Party.
His resignation comes on the heels of a decisive Labour Party win in the general election.
Sunak revealed that he will have an audience with King Charles on Friday to officially submit his resignation as prime minister.
While speaking from the steps of 10 Downing Street, Mr. Sunak expressed his regret:
“I have given this job my all, but you have sent a clear signal that the government of the United Kingdom must change. Yours is the only judgement that matters. I have heard your anger, your disappointment, and I take responsibility for this loss.
“I am honoured to have been your prime minister; this is the best country in the world.”
Labour’s victory marks a historic shift, with the Conservatives losing more seats than in any previous election, turning many regions red.
Sir Keir Starmer celebrated his win early Friday morning, telling supporters that the UK now has “the opportunity after 14 years to get its future back.”
Mr. Sunak, after securing his seat in Richmond, North Yorkshire, acknowledged the defeat as “sobering” and extended his congratulations to Sir Keir Starmer.
“The British people have delivered a sobering verdict tonight, there is much to learn… and I take responsibility for the loss,” he remarked.
Mr. Sunak offered his apologies, to the numerous Conservatives who lost their seats, “It pains me to think how many good colleagues who contributed so much to their communities and our country will now no longer sit in the House of Commons. I thank them for their hard work and their service.
“To all the Conservative candidates and campaigners who worked tirelessly, but without success, I’m sorry that we could not deliver what your efforts deserved”.
