Cabinet Minister Blasts plotters for disturbing harmony, refuses to rule out future leadership bid.

In a stern rebuke, Cabinet Minister Kemi Badenoch has criticized Tory plotters attempting to oust Rishi Sunak, demanding they “stop messing around” and cease speculating about her as a potential leader. Badenoch urged unity and support for the current leadership, emphasizing the public’s disinterest in internal party matters.

Speaking on the matter, Badenoch defended Sunak, stating, “They need to stop messing around and get behind the leader. The fact of the matter is most people in the country are not interested in all of this Westminster tittle-tattle.” She dismissed those linking her name to leadership discussions, asserting that they are merely stirring controversy without concern for her or her family.

Badenoch, who previously launched her own leadership bid in 2022, topping surveys among activists for the next Tory leader, did not outright deny aspirations for the role if a vacancy arises. She emphasized the need for focus and unity within the party, discouraging public discussions that may harm its image.

The Cabinet Minister expressed her dissatisfaction with fellow Tory member Sir Simon Clarke, who publicly called for the replacement of the Prime Minister, describing such actions as detrimental to party cohesion. Badenoch urged a more restrained approach, emphasizing the importance of handling such matters internally.

As the political landscape remains uncertain, with Labour leading in polls, Tory concerns persist about the upcoming elections. A major poll commissioned by the Conservative Britain Alliance has raised alarms about a potential election outcome reminiscent of the party’s 1997 wipe-out.