Kemi Badenoch

Kemi Badenoch is a British Conservative Party politician who became leader of the party in November 2024 and leader of the opposition.

Kemi Badenoch is a British Conservative Party politician who has served as the Member of Parliament for North West Essex since 2017. She became leader of the Conservative Party and leader of the opposition in November 2024. Badenoch is the first Black person to lead the Conservative Party in the United Kingdom.

Early life and education

Kemi Badenoch was born in Wimbledon, London, in 1980. Public biographies describe her as having Nigerian family roots and note that she studied engineering and law.

Political career

Badenoch began her elected political career in the London Assembly before winning a seat in the House of Commons in 2017. She has held senior ministerial posts in Conservative governments, including roles in trade, business, and equality policy. She served as Secretary of State for Business and Trade and Secretary of State for International Trade, among other positions.

Conservative Party leadership

In November 2024, Badenoch became leader of the Conservative Party and leader of the opposition. Her election marked a historic first, as she is the first Black person to lead the party.

Political positions

Badenoch is known for her outspoken style and criticism of identity politics and “woke” ideology. Her political profile is associated with a socially and economically conservative approach.