Former PM Boris Johnson Lambasts Successor Rishi Sunak for Lacking a “Positive Agenda for Change”
In a political climate brimming with tension, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has issued a scathing rebuke of Rishi Sunak’s leadership. Based on interviews for Nadine Dorries’ new book, Johnson denounces the current government’s trajectory as a “drift to defeat,” with a YouGov poll revealing Labour’s 24-point lead over the Conservatives12.
A Call for Action Amidst Drifting Polls Johnson, speaking candidly with Dorries, lambasts Sunak for lacking vision, cautioning against a lacklustre government that fails to inspire the very “Brexit seats” that were pivotal to the Conservatives’ 2019 victory. The former leader’s vexation is palpable as he warns of a repeat of local election disappointments on a national scale, should the party not recalibrate with urgency12.
Economic Policy at the Heart of Contention At the core of Johnson’s critique is Sunak’s economic policy, specifically the hike in corporation tax from 19 to 25 percent. In a bold counter, Johnson advocates for a radical cut to 10 percent, challenging Sunak to emulate Ireland’s tax incentives rather than adhere to “international norms”1.
Allegations of a ‘Stooge’ Prime Minister Adding intrigue to the already tumultuous situation, Johnson suggests Sunak is but a puppet, maneuvered into position by Dominic Cummings, Johnson’s erstwhile adviser turned adversary. This accusation introduces a narrative of political machinations reminiscent of espionage thrillers, with Cummings dismissing such claims as part of a grand, facetious “conspiracy”3.
Dorries’ Endorsement of Johnson’s Perspective Nadine Dorries echoes Johnson’s sentiments, describing his insights as “absolutely right” and stressing the necessity for a government that offers voters a tangible reason to cast their ballot for the Conservatives. Her book sets out to unveil what she perceives as a democratic deficit within the party, pointing fingers at a “small group of men” influencing pivotal political decisions2.
The Unravelling of a Former Coalition Johnson’s departure from office in 2022, precipitated by Sunak’s resignation among other scandals, seems to have left unresolved grievances. The former PM’s discourse on his forced exit and the current state of the party he once led is fraught with frustration and a stern warning against bitterness3.
In light of these revelations, the Conservatives face a challenging road ahead. With Johnson’s pro-Brexit, pro-growth, and pro-freedom stances, his critique of Sunak’s leadership raises questions about the party’s current direction and its ability to reclaim the trust and enthusiasm of its 2019 electorate. Story Source
