LONDON – UK Labour Party leader Keir Starmer was sworn in on Friday as the country’s prime minister after leading his party to a landslide victory in the general election, ending more than a decade of Conservative rule.
Labour secured 412 seats in the 650-seat House of Commons, while the Conservatives managed just 121.
“A mandate like this comes with great responsibility,” Starmer said in his victory speech. “The fight to regain people’s trust after years of disillusionment is the battle that defines our age.”
Outgoing Prime Minister Rishi Sunak conceded defeat and took personal responsibility for his party’s devastating loss. “First and foremost, I am sorry,” Sunak said. “You have sent a clear signal that the government of the U.K. must change, and yours is the only judgment that matters.”
Starmer faces significant challenges, including economic stagnation and public distrust in institutions. “Nothing has gone well in the last 14 years,” said London voter James Erskine. “I see this as the potential for a seismic shift.”
Labour’s campaign promises included reviving the economy, investing in infrastructure, and transforming Britain into a “clean energy superpower.” The party gained support from the business community and endorsements from traditionally conservative newspapers.
The Conservative campaign suffered from gaffes and internal scandals. Several close to Sunak are under investigation for allegedly using insider information to place bets on the election date. Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, captured 15% of the vote, highlighting challenges for both major parties.
“Change begins now,” Starmer declared as he assumed office. London Mayor Sadiq Khan emphasized the need for humility and governance in the national interest. Former Conservative leader William Hague called the results “a catastrophic result in historic terms for the Conservative Party.”
Despite the obstacles, Starmer’s victory marks a new era in British politics. “We’ve got to earn the trust of those that voted Labour, but also try and win the confidence of those that didn’t,” Khan said.
The UK and South Sudan have a relationship rooted in development and peacebuilding efforts since South Sudan’s independence in 2011. The UK along other western allies have been working on efforts to address the political and security challenges the country has faced since outbreak of war in 2013.
Humanitarian aid is another cornerstone of the UK’s engagement with South Sudan. They are a major donor, providing essential services like food, shelter, healthcare, and sanitation to vulnerable populations, with a particular focus on women and girls.