British Conservative MP James Duddridge, an ally of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, stated on Saturday that Johnson has enough support to run for the position of Prime Minister. He added in a tweet that the former British leader has reached the required threshold of support, which is 100 MPs.
In separate reports, the "Sunday Times," the BBC, and Sky News cited an unnamed source close to Johnson, indicating that he has the backing of 100 Conservative MPs, and therefore, he "could" appear on the candidates' list. Johnson has not yet officially announced his candidacy, but Duddridge mentioned on Friday that Johnson informed him he is "ready for it."
The former Prime Minister returned to Britain on Saturday morning from his vacation in the Dominican Republic, just days after the dramatic resignation of his successor Liz Truss. Conservative lawmakers wishing to enter the race must secure the support of 100 colleagues by 2 PM on Monday.
Johnson's return would be an astonishing comeback for a polarizing figure forced to resign due to fluctuating ethical scandals. Opponents argue that giving him another chance would only lead to further controversy and disappointment.
This leadership uncertainty comes at a time marked by weak economic growth, with millions struggling with rising borrowing costs and increasing prices of groceries, fuel, and other essentials. A growing wave of strikes by railway workers, postal workers, lawyers, and others reveals mounting discontent as a recession looms. Truss resigned on Thursday after 45 tumultuous days, admitting she could not deliver on an economic tax-cut package, which she had to abandon after it caused financial market upheaval.
