•Keir Starmer/The Guardian
In a sweeping victory, Labour, led by Keir Starmer, has won the UK general election, marking a significant shift in the nation’s political landscape.
With Labour securing 408 seats, surpassing the 326 needed for a majority, Starmer proclaimed an “age of national renewal” at Royal Festival Hall in London, promising to rebuild the country.
The Conservative Party faced a devastating defeat, with key figures like Liz Truss and Jacob Rees-Mogg losing their seats. Rishi Sunak acknowledged the party’s poor performance, taking responsibility for the loss. Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats made substantial gains, securing 68 seats, and the Green Party achieved their goal of four MPs.
Northern Ireland saw Sinn Féin emerge as the largest party for the first time, while in Scotland, Labour made significant gains at the expense of the SNP. Despite Labour’s overall success, there were challenges, including losses to independents and internal conflicts over candidate selections.
This election marks a pivotal moment for the UK, as Labour takes the reins with a mandate for change and renewal. (Guardian)