In a bold move to reassert his authority, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has launched a significant reshuffle, resulting in the removal of Suella Braverman from her position as Home Secretary.
This strategic realignment hints at a potential comeback for former Prime Minister David Cameron.
The Prime Minister's decision to replace Ms. Braverman is seen as an effort to strengthen his position, especially with a general election looming within a year. Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, a close ally of Sunak known for his more moderate views on the European Convention on Human Rights, is set to assume the role of Home Secretary.
A surprising twist in this reshuffle is the appearance of David Cameron at Number 10, fueling speculation that he may be offered a peerage and take on Cleverly's former role. If this materializes, Cameron would become the first member of the Upper House to hold such a position since Lord Carrington in the 1980s.
The dismissal of Suella Braverman follows a week of intense controversy surrounding the handling of pro-Palestinian protests in London on Armistice Day. Braverman's criticism of "hate marches" and her unapproved article accusing the police of bias drew ire from No10. Critics hold her responsible for exacerbating tensions, while supporters argue that the grim scenes in the capital justified her stance.
One right-wing ERG bloc member expressed extreme sarcasm, stating, "We're ecstatic. All we need is for Tobias Ellwood to be Defence Secretary, and our joy will be complete." A Tory aide suggested that Sunak's reshuffle was a form of "top trolling of the right."
In response to her removal, Braverman commented, "It has been the greatest privilege of my life to serve as Home Secretary. I will have more to say in due course." Downing Street confirmed Sunak's request for Braverman to leave the government, marking a significant shift in the political landscape.
The reshuffle, announced on social media, is framed as Sunak "strengthening his team to deliver long-term decisions for a brighter future." Meanwhile, the unexpected presence of David Cameron and the impending changes in other major positions, including Health Secretary Steve Barclay and Environment Secretary Therese Coffey, add an air of anticipation to the political scene. Despite the uncertainty, Jeremy Hunt appears secure just days before the Autumn Statement.
The reshuffle comes on the heels of over 100 arrests following clashes between far-right groups and pro-Palestine protesters in central London. Braverman's departure and the potential adjustments in key roles reflect the government's response to a challenging political landscape and impending legal judgments. Photo by UK Government, Wikimedia commons.