In pics: Dejection writ large on Rishi Sunak’s face after record defeat
Rishi Sunak, burdened with an air of somber weight of defeat to the Labour Party in the recently concluded UK elections, said through the results he has “heard the anger and disappointment of the people.” His eyes, previously bright with ambition, were shadowed by a veil of weariness and reflection as he took the microphone outside his soon-to-be former home, 10 Downing Street in London, to deliver his final address to the nation.
While saying “sorry” to the nation for not being able to stand up to their expectations, Rishi stares below, seeing not the media or the people but the past reflection of what might have been. The corners of his eyes crinkle, not from the lights or camera, but from the strain of defeat.
Calling this a “difficult day,” Sunak said with a sorrowful voice, “You have sent a clear message, and yours is the only judgement that matters.”
Earlier, as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was delivering a speech after retaining his parliamentary seat in Richmond and Northallerton, Prankster Niko Omilana held an “L” sign behind his back.
Claiming the prank, which referred to Sunak as a “loser,” Omilana on his social media handle stated, “Hold this, L Rishi, your time is up.”
Omilana stood as an independent candidate in the North Yorkshire constituency, winning a total of 160 votes.
Taking responsibility for the defeat, Rishi Sunak said, “To all the Conservative candidates and campaigners who worked tirelessly, but without success, I’m sorry that we could not deliver what your efforts deserved.” With sadness hovering around, he holds the hand of his wife Akshata Murty, and took the last walk as Prime Minister, away from the nation to his home.
