UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing a severe crisis of authority, with senior Tories asserting that his leadership will suffer unless he promptly dismisses the "controversial and divisive" Home Secretary, Suella Braverman.
The media reports widespread anger over Braverman's inflammatory comments on police bias and her open defiance of No 10, creating an expectation among Conservatives that Sunak will take action early this week.
The prevailing sentiment is that her removal could pave the way for a cabinet reshuffle, offering a chance to rejuvenate Sunak's premiership, as reported by The Guardian.
While some rightwing MPs support Braverman, moderate backbenchers are urging Downing Street to expedite her dismissal, overwhelming party whips with their demands. A former cabinet minister stated that Braverman's recent article in 'The Times,' accusing the police of bias in favour of pro-Palestinian "mobs," leaves Sunak with no alternative but to let her go. The consequences of retaining her would be dire, turning Sunak into not just an unpopular but a weak and unpopular prime minister, according to The Guardian.
Furthermore, the former cabinet minister highlighted the "untold damage" Braverman is causing to the party's electoral appeal, suggesting that her messages are repelling voters in the south-east of England.
The criticism intensified with Braverman's insinuation that homeless individuals choose their lifestyle, crossing a red line for many Tories. Describing her behaviour as ignorant and nasty, the senior Tory expressed extreme displeasure, rating it an "11" on a scale of one to 10.
Braverman's refusal to tone down her Times article despite requests adds to the growing discontent. Her consistent alignment with what she perceives as her right-wing base has led another senior Tory to label her a "monster" with views deemed unacceptable to the political mainstream.
The widespread frustration within the party underscores the urgency for Sunak to take decisive action, not only for the sake of his own leadership but to salvage the party's reputation and electoral prospects.
(With edits)
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