On December 21st, 2021, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson resigned as a member of Parliament just a week after being ousted as Conservative Party leader and PM by his own party. In a statement to his constituents in the Uxbridge and South Ruislip constituency, Johnson cited the need to “concentrate on his family” and “eventually earn a living outside of politics.” Johnson, who had been an MP for over a decade, leaves a complicated political legacy, having led the UK through Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, but also facing criticism for his handling of both crises.
Johnson served as Prime Minister from July 2019 until November 2021, when he resigned after facing backlash from his own party for his handling of the pandemic and allegations of misconduct. He was succeeded by current Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak. Johnson’s resignation from Parliament marks the end of his political career, at least for the time being.
Johnson had previously served as the Mayor of London from 2008 to 2016, and was known for his colorful personality and often controversial statements. He was a key figure in the Brexit referendum of 2016, campaigning for the UK to leave the European Union. After the referendum, Johnson was appointed Foreign Secretary, but resigned from that post in July 2018 over disagreements with then-Prime Minister Theresa May’s Brexit strategy.
Johnson’s tenure as Prime Minister was marked by controversy and crises. He faced criticism over his management of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly regarding the initial response to the virus and the slow rollout of vaccines. He was also accused of violating lockdown rules and faced scrutiny over his spending on his Downing Street residence.
Despite these challenges, Johnson was a popular figure among many voters, with his “bumbling charm” and celebrity status. His resignation from Parliament marks the end of an era in UK politics, and leaves the Conservative Party without a clear leader going into the 2022 general election.
In the aftermath of Johnson’s resignation, there has been speculation about who will replace him as the Conservative Party’s leader and Prime Minister. The frontrunner is currently Rishi Sunak, who has served as Chancellor of the Exchequer since 2020 and is seen as a rising star within the party. Other potential candidates include Home Secretary Priti Patel, Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, and former Brexit Secretary David Davis.
Whoever takes over as Prime Minister will face a host of challenges, including ongoing discussions around the UK’s relationship with the EU post-Brexit, economic recovery from the pandemic, and rising concerns about climate change and national security. The next general election is scheduled for May 2024, and the Conservative Party will need to present a strong and united front if it hopes to retain power.
Overall, Johnson’s resignation marks the end of a tumultuous period in UK politics, and leaves many questions unanswered about the future direction of the country and the Conservative Party. As the UK moves forward, it remains to be seen who will step up to lead the country through these uncertain times.
