Kemi Badenoch, a Nigerian born in London and raised in Lagos on Saturday won the vote to become the UK Conservatives’ new leader, replacing Rishi Sunak who quit after the party’s disastrous showing in July’s general election.
Here are four things to know about the new Conversative Party leader
1) Background
Kemi Badenoch was born in Wimbledon, London, to Nigerian parents. She spent parts of her childhood in both the United States and Lagos, Nigeria, before returning to the United Kingdom at age 16. Badenoch pursued her education at the University of Sussex and has a professional background in technology and finance. She is a member of the Conservative Party.
2) Party Involvement
As a member of the Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch is known for her firm stance on issues such as free speech, education reform, and economic growth. She has also been recognized for advocating diversity of thought within the party.
3) Leadership Aspirations
In 2022, Badenoch ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, reflecting her ambition and vision for the party’s future. Though she did not win, her candidacy significantly raised her profile.
4) Political Career
Kemi Badenoch is a prominent British politician who has served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Saffron Walden since 2017. She has held various government positions, including Minister for Equalities and Secretary of State for International Trade.