Kemi Badenoch says she joined the Tories for the parties—what that really says about modern politics

DCM Editorial Summary: This story has been independently rewritten and summarised for DCM readers to highlight key developments relevant to the region. Original reporting by BBC, click this post to read the original article.

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Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch revealed in a BBC Radio 4 interview that she initially joined the party for its social atmosphere—seeking fun, connection, and companionship after university. She even met her husband through the party and dedicated Wet Wet Wet’s “Love is All Around” to him during the Desert Island Discs programme. The conversation was recorded shortly after three high-profile defections to Reform UK, including former minister Robert Jenrick. When asked how she would stabilize the party, Badenoch described the departures as beneficial, suggesting those individuals prioritized personal ambition over national progress.

Since becoming leader following the Conservative Party’s historic electoral defeat in 2024, Badenoch has faced tough challenges, including declining poll numbers and significant losses in the 2025 local elections. Despite these setbacks, she emphasized her long-term strategy to rejuvenate the party and ensure its survival after more than two centuries of existence. She acknowledged that such plans might not yield quick results but remained optimistic about the future.

Badenoch reflected on her first leadership bid in 2022, drawing inspiration from the musical Hamilton’s “The Story of Tonight.” She remembered her close circle of colleagues who resigned in frustration and encouraged her to lead, supporting her with the mindset of “if we look stupid, we’ll all look stupid together.” Her song choices included Baz Luhrmann’s “Everybody’s Free (To Wear Sunscreen),” which she found particularly resonant for its philosophical advice applicable to both life and politics.

Sharing her early political journey, Badenoch recalled winning the Essex seat of Saffron Walden in 2010 without local ties, attributing her success to authenticity and humor. She identified strongly with Essex, describing herself as an “Essex girl” and explained how both her parents viewed politics differently. Her father believed in her potential for political success, while her mother was skeptical. Badenoch said part of her mission now is to prove that politicians can be forces for good.

Raised across Nigeria, the U.S., and the U.K., Badenoch embraced British culture through TV and literature. She spoke fondly of shows like Doctor Who and books like Malory Towers, though noted her own boarding school experience in Nigeria was far harsher—comparing it to Borstal with every student carrying a machete to cut grass. For her luxury item, she chose the full suite of Marvel superhero films, revealing a lifelong love of science fiction.