Starmer’s victory clearly indicates that after 14 years, the Conservatives lose power in a catastrophic defeat in their history.
With a few results left to be announced, the Labour Party has secured enough seats in the UK’s 2024 general election to gain an overwhelming majority in parliament. This means that Labour Leader, Keir Starmer, will become the next prime minister, forming what has been described as a super majority government. Having won 412 seats in the 650-seat House of Commons (as at press time), Labour has emerged as the leading party, with the Conservatives securing 120 seats and the centrist Liberal Democrats achieving 71 – their best-ever performance. This significant victory ends the 14 years of Conservative rule in the United Kingdom.
Although this is a massive triumph for Starmer, it also comes with substantial challenges. He will need to address the weariness of the electorate and their impatience for change, amidst economic challenges, growing distrust in institutions, and societal fractures. Starmer has pledged to bring about change as the next prime minister after his Labour Party achieved a resounding victory, putting an end to the 14 years of often tumultuous Conservative government.
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While Rishi Sunak‘s Conservatives experience their worst performance in the party’s history, this is due to voter dissatisfaction with a cost of living crisis, inadequate public services including in the NHS, and a series of scandals.
In his victory speech, Starmer said: “We did it, change begins now. We said we would end the chaos, and we will, we said we would turn the page, and we have. Today, we start the next chapter, begin the work of change, the mission of national renewal and start to rebuild our country.”
What you need to know
In the United Kingdom, the Prime Minister holds the highest position in the government. Throughout history, 57 individuals (54 males and 3 females) have taken on this role. The very first Prime Minister was Robert Walpole, who assumed office on 3rd April 1721. With a tenure spanning over 20 years, Walpole remains the longest-serving Prime Minister, whereas Liz Truss holds the record for the shortest term, serving only seven weeks.
Today, on 5th July 2024, Rishi Sunak will step down as Prime Minister after acknowledging defeat in the 2024 general election. Upon the monarch’s acceptance of his resignation and the appointment of a new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer of the Labour Party is expected to take over the responsibilities of this esteemed position.
