Rishi Sunak Steps Down as UK Opposition Leader, Reflects on Diwali Milestones

Photo : Reuters

On October 30, Rishi Sunak stepped down as the UK Opposition Leader in Parliament, marking the occasion with a reflection on his career milestones during Diwali. Sunak, who made history as the first Prime Minister of Indian heritage two years ago during this Festival of Lights, took the opportunity to share a light-hearted exchange with Prime Minister Keir Starmer during his final Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs).

“I became leader of my party during Diwali and I now stand down during that same festival,” Sunak stated, expressing pride in being the first British Asian Prime Minister. He emphasized the significance of this achievement by noting that it was "not that big a deal," highlighting the values of kindness, decency, and tolerance that characterize the British people and Parliament.

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Sunak reminisced about his Diwali celebrations in October 2022 when he, along with his wife Akshata and daughters Krishna and Anoushka, entered 10 Downing Street. The family adorned the steps with diyas and rangoli for two consecutive years, marking a poignant cultural moment in British history.

In response, Prime Minister Starmer expressed that all members of the British Parliament were proud to have had Sunak represent the country’s diverse heritage. He acknowledged Sunak's "hard work, commitment, and decency" despite their political disagreements. Starmer extended Diwali greetings, wishing everyone in the UK and around the world a joyful celebration, and emphasized the significance of Sunak’s tenure.

“Last Diwali, the Leader of the Opposition and his family lit the diyas outside 10 Downing Street. It was a significant moment in our national story. The first British Asian Prime Minister is a reminder that this is a country where people of every background have fulfilled their dreams, and it makes us all proud to be British,” Starmer added, continuing the tradition set by Sunak by lighting diyas on the steps of 10 Downing Street this year.

Addressing some media speculation regarding his future plans, Sunak humorously reiterated his commitment to serving as a Member of Parliament for Richmond and Northallerton in Yorkshire. “Today is my last appearance at PMQs and I am happy to confirm reports that I will now be spending more time in the greatest place on earth, where the scenery is indeed worthy of a movie set and everybody is a character – that's right, if anyone needs me, I will be in Yorkshire,” he quipped, prompting laughter from his colleagues.

As the Conservative Party prepares for a leadership election set to conclude on Saturday, Sunak will be succeeded by one of his former Cabinet colleagues, Kemi Badenoch or Robert Jenrick, as the new Leader of the Opposition. Sunak's departure marks a significant transition for the Conservative Party as it navigates the aftermath of its recent general election defeat in July.