David Cameron returns as UK’s foreign secretary in surprise government shakeup; Suella Braverman fired.
Former British Prime Minister David Cameron has made a surprising return to high office, taking on the role of foreign secretary in a significant reshuffling of the Conservative government. This unexpected move, orchestrated by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, also involved the dismissal of the controversial Home Secretary Suella Braverman. Cameron’s re-entry into the political arena is notable as it is uncommon for a non-lawmaker to assume a senior government position, and it has been decades since a former prime minister held a Cabinet job.
The decision to appoint Cameron, who led the U.K. government from 2010 to 2016, took seasoned political observers by surprise. His appointment follows the sacking of Braverman, a divisive figure who faced criticism for accusing the police of being too lenient with pro-Palestinian protesters. James Cleverly has stepped in as her replacement, having previously served as foreign secretary. Cameron’s return to government signifies a break from his tenure’s end marked by the 2016 EU membership referendum, where he resigned the day after voters opted to leave the European Union.
Cameron expressed a commitment to addressing pressing international challenges, including the war in Ukraine and the Middle East crisis. He acknowledged the daunting nature of these issues but highlighted his extensive experience as Conservative leader for 11 years and prime minister for six, emphasizing his readiness to assist Prime Minister Sunak in navigating these vital challenges.
The reshuffle is not without controversy, particularly among the Conservative Party’s right wing. Jacob Rees-Mogg, a prominent right-wing lawmaker, criticized the decision to dismiss Braverman, stating that she understood the sentiments of the British voter. Braverman’s removal came amid growing pressure, fueled by her hard-line stance and recent controversial remarks, including accusing London’s police force of ignoring lawbreaking by pro-Palestinian protesters.
This shakeup is seen as an attempt by Sunak to reset his government, which has faced challenges such as a stagnant economy, high inflation, an overstretched healthcare system, and public sector strikes. The bold changes signal Sunak’s effort to present his government as a force of change and break away from the perceived “30-year status quo” that includes the governments of Cameron and other Conservative predecessors. However, critics argue that bringing back Cameron contradicts Sunak’s recent assertion that Cameron represents a failed status quo, complicating the government’s narrative of offering a fresh start after 13 years of Conservative rule.
