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Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party, has pushed back against internal criticism, labeling anonymous detractors as “cowards.”
In an interview with BBC Newsnight, she asserted, “I’m not afraid of cowards.”
Two unidentified members of her party recently expressed their concerns in an article for the Critic magazine, urging her resignation as the party faces potential substantial losses in the upcoming local elections in England.
Badenoch remarked, “I’m not concerned about those who lack the courage to attach their names to their criticisms.”
She added, “I believe that’s cowardice,” questioning the authenticity of anonymous commentary. “If it lacks attribution, I don’t think it deserves my attention.”
The Critic’s May issue featured a call for Badenoch’s replacement by Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, whom she defeated in last year’s leadership race.
The article argued, “Badenoch is not merely failing the party; she represents the point where a party hits rock bottom.”
It characterized her as “unpopular and unlikable, offering no electoral advantage to the party.”
Furthermore, it expressed that, “The Tory Party has yet to come to terms with its previous defeat, nor with the preceding 14 years… We are in severe trouble and are not addressing our issues due to denial.”
Earlier this week, Badenoch dispelled rumors of a division between her and Jenrick regarding a potential electoral alliance with Reform UK.
During her discussion with Newsnight’s Nick Watt, she expressed that she is beginning to find her confidence as opposition leader, drawing inspiration from Margaret Thatcher’s initial struggles during Prime Minister’s Questions.
“The role of opposition leader is vastly different from that of a secretary of state, which I previously occupied,” she explained.
“You discover your rhythm, experiment with various approaches, and recognize what works and what does not.”
“What I appreciate is that my party has unified. A year ago, headlines were dominated by divisions and conflict within the Tories; now, we have come together.”
Thursday marks Badenoch’s initial electoral challenge since taking her leadership position, following her party’s defeat in last year’s general elections.
With the Conservatives currently holding roughly half of the contested seats, Badenoch has acknowledged that the elections could prove to be “extremely difficult” for her party.
Source
www.bbc.com