British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has dismissed Home Secretary Suella Braverman amidst growing controversy over her comments accusing the police of being too lenient with pro-Palestinian protesters. The decision comes as part of a cabinet shuffle ahead of the anticipated general election next year.
Braverman, a vocal right-winger, had been under increasing pressure following weeks of contentious pro-Palestinian demonstrations and counterprotests in Britain. Critics accused her of exacerbating tensions with her inflammatory remarks, leading to calls for her dismissal.
The government confirmed Braverman’s departure on Monday, citing the need for a reshuffle. In a brief statement, Braverman expressed gratitude for her time in office, calling it “the greatest privilege of my life to serve as home secretary.” She hinted at sharing more insights in the future.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly has been appointed as Braverman’s replacement, with former Prime Minister David Cameron taking over Cleverly’s previous role. The reshuffle is part of a broader strategy by Sunak to refresh the cabinet and address declining popularity ahead of the upcoming election.
The Conservative Party, announcing the changes on social media, stated, “Today @RishiSunak strengthens his team in government to deliver long-term decisions for a brighter future. Stay tuned for the latest.”
Braverman’s tenure as Home Secretary was marked by controversy, with her taking a hardline stance on immigration and engaging in divisive culture war debates. She often referred to her critics as “tofu-eating wokerati” and previously expressed her enthusiasm for sending asylum seekers to Rwanda.
However, her position became untenable after she penned an explosive newspaper article last week, without apparent approval from Sunak, accusing the police of bias towards left-wing causes. The article was blamed for escalating tensions ahead of weekend protests related to Israel’s genocidal war in Gaza, resulting in violence from far-right counter-protesters.
The reshuffle is expected to include other changes throughout the day, with Sunak aiming to reward loyalists and introduce younger emerging MPs. The Conservative Party, trailing behind the main Labour opposition, is facing a challenging electoral landscape after nearly 14 years in power.
