LONDON (AA) – Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has withdrawn from the Conservative Party leadership and Prime Ministerial race that began after Liz Truss resigned on October 20.
Johnson said in a written statement that he was surprised by the number of people suggesting that he should once again compete for party leadership, both among the public and among friends and colleagues in parliament.
Emphasizing that he believes he is in a good position for the Conservative Party to achieve a victory in 2024, Johnson stated that he received the support of 102 deputies, which is necessary for him to run for the party leadership tomorrow.
Although Johnson stated that he could run in this situation and his chances of success are high, “However, I have come to the conclusion recently that unfortunately this is not the right thing to do. You cannot govern effectively unless you have a united party in parliament.” made its assessment.
– “This is not the right time”
Expressing that he met with Rishi Sunak and Penny Mordaunt, who officially announced his candidacy for the party leadership, Johnson made the following statements:
“Because I was hoping we could come together for the national interest. Unfortunately we couldn’t find a way to do that. So, I’m afraid it’s best for me not to let my candidacy progress and give my support to what is successful. I believe I have a lot to offer, but unfortunately this is not the right time.”
– Boris Johnson’s announcement of his candidacy was considered certain
The name of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson was also prominent among those who will participate in the race to become the party leadership and also the new Prime Minister of the country.
Even though Johnson did not officially announce his candidacy after interrupting his holiday in the Dominican Republic and returning to England, it was considered certain that the former Prime Minister would participate in the leadership race.
However, there is a possibility that Johnson, who was investigated due to the organization of parties violating the quarantine rules at the Prime Minister’s Office Number 10 during the Kovid-19 outbreak, may be expelled from the parliament or be expelled from the parliament, depending on the outcome of the investigation.
British Prime Minister Liz Truss became the country’s new prime minister on September 5, winning the election race against her rival, former Finance Minister Rishi Sunak, in her fight to replace Johnson.
Truss, who remained in office for 44 days after the political and economic turmoil in the country, announced his resignation on 20 October.