British leader Rishi Sunak dismisses Interior Minister Suella Braverman amid controversy over her handling of pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
The reshuffle precedes an anticipated general election, with critics accusing Braverman of heightening tensions.
The replacement for Braverman, a vocal right-winger, is yet to be announced. This reshuffle marks Sunak’s first since assuming office on October 25, 2022.
The changes are expected to reward loyalists and emerging MPs as the ruling Conservatives seek to address declining popularity after nearly 14 years in power.
Braverman faced criticism for her hardline immigration stance and involvement in divisive cultural issues.
The right-winger attacked her critics as liberal “tofu-eating wokerati,” and her tenure included controversial statements like expressing the desire to send asylum seekers to Rwanda.
However, her position became increasingly untenable after she wrote an explosive newspaper article last week, apparently without Sunak’s approval, accusing the police of bias towards left-wing causes.
This article was blamed for stoking tensions ahead of a weekend of protests over Israel’s war in Gaza, coinciding with Armistice Day events, leading to calls for her dismissal.
The firing of Braverman comes as the ruling Conservatives confirm a major reshuffle of Sunak’s top ministers, signaling strategic changes in the government ahead of the anticipated general election next year.
