In a stunning move, Boris Johnson, the former British Prime Minister, has abruptly stepped down as a Member of Parliament following an ongoing investigation into his conduct. The inquiry, which centers around allegations of misleading the House of Commons regarding lockdown-breaking parties, has reignited deep divisions within the ruling Conservative Party and raised questions about Johnson’s political future.
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In opposition to an ongoing parliamentary investigation into his behavior, former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has resigned as a member of parliament. Johnson’s alleged misrepresentation of lockdown-breaking parties conducted at Downing Street during the COVID-19 epidemic to the House of Commons is being investigated. Johnson, calling the committee a “kangaroo court,” charged legislators with arranging a “political hit job” without offering any convincing proof. His resignation could put an end to his 22-year political career, during which he progressed from member of parliament to mayor of London and was instrumental in the Brexit referendum.
So let’s get this right. Johnson lies to Parliament. He’s exposed as a liar. But he gets to appoint a resignation list including Covid rule breakers & dodgy sycophants hours before resigning. And they keep the gongs?What a corrupt British state we live in. https://t.co/51xqJypunl
— JOHN NICOLSON M.P. (@MrJohnNicolson) June 9, 2023
The parliamentary privileges committee, responsible for disciplinary actions against lawmakers, had the authority to recommend Johnson’s suspension from parliament. If the suspension had lasted more than 10 days, constituents in his constituency would have been able to demand a by-election. While Johnson hinted at a possible return to politics in the future, his current resignation may mark a significant turning point in his political trajectory.
Johnson vehemently denied the allegations against him, asserting that the committee had failed to produce any evidence supporting their claims. He suggested that the investigation was driven by a desire to seek revenge for Brexit and reverse the outcome of the 2016 referendum. Notably, the committee conducting the inquiry is led by a senior member of the Labour Party, although most committee members are Conservatives.
According to the committee’s announcement, its investigation will be finished on Monday, and its report will be released soon. Johnson’s departure, according to a committee spokeswoman, was disappointing since his remarks cast doubt on the legitimacy of Parliament. His resignation will cause a by-election to be held in Johnson’s district, significantly transforming the political scene.
Johnson’s departure from political life comes after a series of controversies, including the violation of COVID-19 lockdown rules and gatherings in Downing Street. While some Conservatives initially supported him due to his ability to appeal to a broad electorate, his administration’s approach to governing and the ensuing scandals eroded support within his party and among the general public.
In his resignation statement, Johnson criticized current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his government, suggesting that his departure contributed to a widening gap in the polls. He called for the Conservative Party to regain momentum and reaffirm its belief in the country’s potential.
Johnson’s resignation marks a significant event in British politics, particularly given his instrumental role in Brexit. As he exits the political stage, a by-election will determine his successor in his constituency. The outcome of the parliamentary inquiry and its impact on Johnson’s political legacy will undoubtedly shape the future dynamics of the ruling Conservative Party and the broader political landscape of the United Kingdom.
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