The Labour Party has secured a landslide victory in the 2024 UK election, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape. Keir Starmer, the 61-year-old leader of the Labour Party, has been appointed as the new Prime Minister, replacing Rishi Sunak of the Conservative Party. This victory ends 14 years of Conservative rule and ushers in a new era for the United Kingdom.
In his first public address from Downing Street, Starmer emphasized the urgency of his government's work and the need for a fresh start. He acknowledged the political discontent in the country and promised that the transformation would take time. 'Our work is urgent and we are starting it today,' he declared.
Starmer's Labour Party achieved a remarkable result, securing at least 412 of the 650 seats in the House of Commons, a significant increase from the 202 seats won in the 2019 election. The Conservative Party, on the other hand, saw a dramatic decline, plummeting from 365 seats to around 120 seats. This defeat led to the resignation of Rishi Sunak as the leader of the Conservative Party.
The new Prime Minister has swiftly moved to form his cabinet, appointing key figures such as Angela Rayner as Deputy Prime Minister, Rachel Reeves as Finance Minister, and David Lammy as Foreign Affairs Minister. Other notable appointments include John Healey as Defense Minister, Yvette Cooper as Home Affairs Minister, Wes Streeting as Health Minister, Ed Miliband as Energy Minister, Shabana Mahmood as Justice Minister, and Bridget Philipson as Education Minister.
Starmer has promised a 'major reset' for the country, focusing on rebuilding trust and serving all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations. 'Whether you voted Labour or not, especially if you didn't, I say to you straight: my government will serve you,' he assured the public.
The election results have been met with varied reactions. While Starmer's victory speech highlighted a 'mission of national renewal,' Sunak admitted defeat and expressed his intention to step down as party leader. International reactions included congratulations from German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who expressed readiness for common challenges ahead.
The election also saw a historic low in voter turnout, with only 59.8% of eligible voters casting their ballots, the lowest in over 20 years. Despite this, the Labour Party's victory is seen as a mandate for change and renewal.
Starmer faces significant international commitments in the coming weeks, including the NATO summit, which will be his first international appearance as Prime Minister. As he steps into his new role, the country looks forward to a period of transformation and renewed optimism under his leadership.
