Sir Keir Starmer
By Thabo Mosia
President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Sir Keir Starmer on his recent appointment as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. This came after the Labour Party’s resounding victory in the general elections held on 4 July 2024, resulting in Starmer assuming office on 5 July 2024.
South Africa’s Commitment to Strong Bilateral Ties
In a statement, President Ramaphosa emphasised the longstanding and robust relationship between South Africa and the UK. He noted the historical ties and mutual commitment to values such as democracy and the rule of law that bind the two nations.
“The UK is one of South Africa’s largest bilateral trading and investment partners and remains South Africa’s number one source of long-haul tourism in the world,” said President Ramaphosa. He further highlighted the collaboration between the two countries in various multilateral fora to advance shared ideals and objectives.
A Look Back at Historical Ties
In 2022, President Ramaphosa was the first Head of State to undertake a State Visit to the UK, following an invitation from King Charles III. The visit was a significant occasion, aimed at strengthening the bonds of cooperation and friendship between the two countries.
President Ramaphosa shared his optimism about working with Prime Minister Starmer to further enhance bilateral relations and tackle global political and security challenges.
Starmer’s Vision for “Rebuilding Britain”
Profound changes are expected as Keir Starmer took office, promising to “rebuild Britain” after Labour’s significant victory, which ended 14 years of Conservative rule. Following a meeting with King Charles III at Buckingham Palace, Starmer was officially appointed as the new prime minister.
In his inaugural speech, surrounded by enthusiastic Labour supporters at Downing Street, Starmer remarked, “Now, our country has voted decisively for change, for national renewal and a return of politics to public service… The work of change begins immediately, but have no doubt, we will rebuild Britain.”
Conservative Party’s Defeat and Reflections
A subdued Rishi Sunak conceded defeat after a challenging election night which saw the loss of at least 12 senior Cabinet colleagues. These results were partly attributed to the disastrous tenure of his predecessor, Liz Truss, whose unfunded tax cuts caused significant financial turmoil.
Sunak expressed remorse to the public before leaving Downing Street, stating that he would resign as the Tory leader once a successor is chosen.
Labour’s Sweeping Victory
Labour swiftly secured the 326 seats required for a majority in the 650-seat House of Commons by 0400 GMT. As of 1200 GMT on Friday, the party had achieved a commanding 412 seats, resulting in a majority exceeding 170, with only two results pending declaration.
The Conservatives managed to win just 121 seats, a record low, possibly fragmented due to the right-wing vote attracted by Nigel Farage’s anti-immigration Reform UK party. Meanwhile, the smaller opposition Liberal Democrats outperformed the Scottish National Party, positioning themselves as the third-largest party.
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