UK Conservative Party in Turmoil Amid Leadership Crisis and Public Backlash
London, May 29, 2025 — The UK Conservative Party is experiencing one of its most turbulent periods in recent memory, as internal divisions threaten to overshadow its efforts to regain public trust and political relevance. Recent developments reveal mounting pressure on party leader Kemi Badenoch, with reports of senior Tories orchestrating a covert campaign to replace her with former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, reflecting deep dissatisfaction with the party’s current direction.
Polls and Public Sentiment
The Conservatives have plummeted to fourth place in national polls, a dramatic fall from their once-dominant position. This decline is attributed to a series of missteps and strategic miscalculations, with party insiders labeling some of Badenoch’s recent decisions as a “total disaster”. The party’s rightward shift under her leadership—aimed at reclaiming voters lost to Nigel Farage’s Reform UK—has alienated centrist and younger voters, further eroding its base.
Leadership Tensions and Johnson’s Shadow
The leadership contest that brought Badenoch to power was itself contentious, with many moderates warning that doubling down on populist, right-wing policies would only deepen the party’s woes. Now, the prospect of Boris Johnson’s return is fueling speculation and anxiety within Tory ranks, as some believe only a high-profile figure can reverse the party’s fortunes.
Recent Controversies and Party Discipline
The party’s troubles extend beyond leadership. Former Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross was expelled from a parliamentary session after a heated exchange, highlighting ongoing discipline issues. Meanwhile, Robert Jenrick, a former leadership contender, drew criticism for filming an unauthorized video confronting alleged fare evaders on the London Underground, raising questions about judgment and respect for public institutions.
Civil Service Code and E-Gate Dispute
The government’s handling of technical issues with the E-Gate border system has also sparked controversy, with some Conservative MPs accusing Downing Street of violating the Civil Service Code. This dispute has intensified the sense of dysfunction and lack of unified strategy within the party.
The Farage Factor
Complicating matters, Nigel Farage and the Reform UK party continue to gain traction, particularly in traditional Tory strongholds. Farage’s populist messaging is resonating with disaffected Conservative voters, further threatening the party’s electoral prospects.
Outlook and Upcoming Elections
With local elections looming and over 1,600 council seats at stake, the Conservatives face the prospect of significant losses that could further destabilize the party and embolden calls for leadership change. Observers warn that unless the party can resolve its internal conflicts and present a coherent vision, it risks long-term decline and irrelevance in the evolving UK political landscape.
“By refusing to chart a new path forward, the Conservatives have potentially dealt themselves the equivalent of a political ‘death sentence’ at the ballot box with the election of Kemi Badenoch.”
As the party navigates these challenges, the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether it can regroup and adapt, or if it will continue its downward spiral amid growing competition from both Labour and Reform UK.