Boris Johnson resigns as MP, citing Partygate probe as reason

Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, has resigned from his position as a Member of Parliament, citing a parliamentary investigation into the “Partygate” scandal as the reason for his departure. The 58-year-old announced his resignation on Friday, causing an immediate by-election in his constituency and putting pressure on his successor, Rishi Sunak.

The parliamentary inquiry was examining whether Johnson misled the House of Commons by claiming that all COVID-19 regulations were followed. If the privileges committee found that he had deliberately or recklessly misled Parliament, they could recommend suspending him for over ten days, potentially leading to an election for his seat.

In a statement, Johnson revealed that he had received a letter from the privileges committee, which he claimed was intent on using the proceedings against him to force him out of Parliament. He expressed his sadness at leaving Parliament and his bewilderment and outrage at being forced out without evidence or approval from Conservative party members or the wider electorate.

The former Prime Minister’s tenure was marred by widespread anger within his party and across the UK over the alleged violation of COVID lockdown rules during parties held at his Downing Street office and residence. He accused the committee of being a “kangaroo court” and claimed that most members, particularly the chair, had already made prejudiced statements about his guilt before even examining the evidence. Johnson admitted that he had been naive and overly trusting in believing that the proceedings could be fair or useful.

In his resignation statement, Johnson also criticised current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, noting that the government’s standing in the polls had significantly declined since he left office. He emphasised the need for the party to regain its momentum and belief in the country’s potential.