Economy slowdown
The primary reason for the Sunak government's defeat is the series of crises that have plagued the UK in recent years. Economically, the country has been grappling with low growth, significantly underperforming compared to other major developed economies. In 2023, the British economy grew by a mere 0.1 percent and fell into a recession earlier this year. (AFP photo)
Inflation crisis
Simultaneously, the UK has been experiencing a severe cost of living crisis. Inflation soared to 40-year highs in October 2022 and has only recently started to decrease. This prolonged period of high inflation has made the country poorer and left its citizens frustrated and angry. (AP photo)
Stumbling campaign
Rishi Sunak's campaign encountered early challenges, beginning with controversy over candidate suspensions linked to a scandal involving betting on the election date. The decision to suspend these candidates drew criticism, particularly after pressure from Labour leader Starmer, casting doubt on Sunak's management of internal party affairs. (AP photo)
Taxes, Covid-19 and Thatcherite ideals
Rishi Sunak's leadership was defined by his Thatcherite commitment to lower taxes and a smaller government, contrasting with his party's electoral strategy. His Covid-19 economic response, praised for saving jobs, also heightened the country's tax burden. His legacy rests on his economic stewardship and handling of internal party divisions. (AFP photo)
Estrangement from working class
Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Narayana Murty, known for their lavish lifestyle, have alienated working-class voters. With a fortune estimated at 651 million pounds, they are the wealthiest residents of No. 10 Downing Street, a wealth disparity highlighted by Labour leader Starmer to criticize Sunak's disconnect from ordinary people's struggles. (PTI photo)
Immigration challenge
Britain is grappling with a significant immigration challenge, particularly from asylum seekers originating from Turkey, Iran, and Afghanistan. Termed the "small boat crisis," thousands of refugees have been crossing the English Channel in small vessels to reach England. (AFP photo)
Crumbling public services
Public services in Britain, including the revered National Health Service (NHS), are in decline due to a severe funding crisis. Once celebrated for its universal and affordable healthcare, the NHS is now struggling to provide timely and cost-effective care to ordinary citizens. This deterioration has sparked widespread anger directed at the Conservative Party for its perceived mishandling of the NHS. (AFP photo)