British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak fired controversial interior minister Suella Braverman on Monday, according to numerous UK media agencies, as he reshuffles his senior team ahead of a general election next year.
Sunak was under increasing pressure to fire Braverman, an outspoken right-winger, after critics accused her of inflaming tensions in Britain during weeks of controversial pro-Palestinian demonstrations and counter-protests.
It is unclear who will succeed Braverman, who was nominated to the position when Sunak became Prime Minister just over a year ago.
Following her dismissal, Braverman said “it has been the greatest privilege of my life to serve as home secretary”.
“I will have more to say in due course,” she added.
The sacking comes as the ruling Conservatives announced a substantial overhaul of Sunak’s top ministers, his first since becoming Prime Minister on October 25, 2022.
“Here we go,” the party said on X, formerly Twitter.
“Today @RishiSunak strengthens his team in government to deliver long-term decisions for a brighter future. Stay tuned for the latest.”
The revisions, which are anticipated to be unveiled throughout the morning, are expected to reward loyalists and younger emerging MPs, since the Tories’ popularity has dwindled after nearly 14 years in office.
Throughout Sunak’s tenure, the party has behind the main Labour opposition by double digits, and it is widely expected to lose the next election next year.
Throughout her tenure, Braverman sparked controversy by taking a harsh stance on immigration in particular and frequently entering into so-called culture wars issues that are perceived as dividing the population.
The right-winger referred to her detractors as “tofu-eating wokerati,” and stated shortly after her appointment that sending asylum seekers to Rwanda was her “dream” and “obsession.”
But her situation grew increasingly precarious after she published an incendiary newspaper article last week, ostensibly without Sunak’s knowledge, accusing police of prejudice against left-wing causes.
It was blamed for inflaming emotions ahead of a weekend of rallies against Israel’s Gaza assault, which coincided with Armistice Day activities, prompting calls for her resignation.