LONDON – In a surprising development, the United Kingdom Prime Minister announced holding a general election on July 4, as the ruling party will likely be ousted after more than a decade in power.
Sunak announced quick polls for July 4, and it started beginning of six weeks of intense campaigning for the elections. The upcoming elections will determine the fate of party Conservatives as four PMs were changed in eight years, navigating through the chaos of Brexit, the coronavirus pandemic, and a cost-of-living crisis.
With Labour Party leading most polls by double digits for the past 18 months, a Conservative defeat seems almost certain. Sunak is betting that recent positive news, including signs of economic growth and the lowest inflation rate in three years, might help his party retain power.
In a statement, PM Sunak said it is time for Britishers to choose future. He announced the polls amid plethora of challenges related to recession, soring prices, questionable tax policies, and several scandals.
Opposition leader Keir Starmer also responded, saying tonight the prime minister has finally announced the next general election, calling it a chance to change for the better future.
Earlier, Brtiish PM criticized the Labour Party, claiming they lack a plan and cannot be trusted. His message was largely negative, which might be all the Conservatives have left after 14 years in power.
Sunak is attempting to position himself as a candidate of change with fresh ideas, but key question voters will ask ahead of this much-anticipated election is: why should he be given another chance?