South Asians Who Could Become UK’s Next PM
Well well well, who would have thought that one day a South Asian would have a chance to become the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (UK). The Brits who colonized and ruled over all the ‘brown’ people may just see the tables being turned. With the political crisis unfolding after Boris Johnson’s resignation and nearly four dozen ministers, aspirations to see a South Asian become UK’s next PM has risen among the ethnic populace. There are many front runners for the coveted position and the South Asian faces include Rishi Sunak, Suella Braverman, Priti Patel, and Sajid Javid.
Let’s take a brief look at all of them.
Rishi Sunak
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The crowd favorite to become UK’s next PM Rishi Sunak has been appreciated for doing some great work during the difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Son-in-law of Infosys founder NR Narayana Murthy, Sunak became a member of the parliament for the first in 2015 from Richmond. Within five years, he was catapulted to the cabinet position of Chancellor of the Exchequer. The former analyst became hugely popular during the pandemic by framing packages worth tens of billions of pounds to help businesses and workers.
Suella Braverman
I owe a debt of gratitude to this country and I would be honoured to serve as Prime Minister #Suella4PM pic.twitter.com/A8Rn8XmK9O
— Suella Braverman MP (@SuellaBraverman) July 9, 2022
Suella Braverman is another favorite to replace Johnson. The Goan-origin surprised many when she announced her interest to run for PM while she still served in Johnson’s government. Currently, the Attorney General in the UK Cabinet, she is among the early Tory members of parliament to formally declare her leadership bid.
Priti Patel
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Daughter of Ugandan-Indian parents, Priti Patel is also a possible contender for the top job. She was among Johnson’s greatest supporters but recently switched sides, joining those calling for his resignation.
Sajid Javid
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Sajid Javid, the first-ever Muslim home secretary of the country is the son of Pakistani immigrants. Javid was first elected in 2010 and has held various posts, including leading the departments for business, culture, and housing. In 2019, he ran in the Conservative leadership election, but was eliminated in the fourth round and lost to Johnson.
Is UK ready for a South Asian Prime Minister? Only time will tell.
