UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced a national election for July 4, providing voters an opportunity to shape their future in a contest where his Conservative Party, after 14 years in power, is expected to lose to the opposition Labour Party.
Sunak, 44, ended months of speculation by calling the election several months earlier than anticipated, a bold move given his party’s significant lag behind Labour in polls.
Speaking outside his Downing Street office in heavy rain, he highlighted his government achievements as prime minister and former finance minister, amidst the sounds of Labour’s 1997 election anthem played by protesters.
Sunak emphasized the critical choice facing Britain, urging voters to build on current progress rather than risking a return to uncertainty. He pledged to fight for every vote, asserting that only a Conservative government under his leadership would safeguard economic stability.
He criticized Labour leader Keir Starmer for lacking a clear plan and consistently opting for the easy route, suggesting that a future under Labour would be uncertain.
In response, Starmer, who has repositioned Labour towards the political center, issued a statement centered on the need for “change.”
“On July 4, you, the voters, have the choice. Together, we can end the chaos, turn the page, start rebuilding Britain, and change our country,” he said, standing in front of two Union Jack flags.
