10-24-2022, 02:01 PM
LONDON – British Conservative Rishi Sunak was today poised to become prime minister and the country’s first leader of colour, after the dramatic decision by Boris Johnson to abandon an audacious political comeback.
Just weeks after failing in a first attempt to lead the ruling Tories, Sunak could cap a stunning reversal in fortunes by winning the leadership as early as this afternoon, following ex-premier Johnson’s unexpected move late yesterday.
The contest, triggered by outgoing leader Liz Truss’ resignation on Thursday, requires candidates to secure the support of at least 100 Conservative MPs by 2.00pm (1300 GMT) today.
Sunak had crossed that threshold by Friday night, ahead of declaring his candidacy yesterday and amassing nearly 150 public nominations from Tory lawmakers.
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