Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ Suella Braverman, the Indian-origin Cabinet minister, has faced criticism during her tumultuous tenure as the UK Home Secretary. Known for her strong stance on immigration, she used terms like a “hurricane” of illegal migrants, proposing their deportation to Rwanda. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently removed her from her position amid mounting pressure, making this her second departure from the same Cabinet role in just over a year. The 43-year-old’s exit follows her controversial article in ‘The Times,’ accusing the Metropolitan Police of bias in handling protesters related to the Israel-Gaza conflict. Braverman’s departure, officially described as a resignation last year, was prompted by breaches of ministerial guidelines.
This time, her op-ed without Downing Street’s clearance and the subsequent clash with Sunak led to her dismissal. Speculation suggests Braverman may have intentionally provoked her removal, anticipating a general election next year. This strategy could bolster her support on the right-wing of the Conservative party, positioning her for a leadership bid if Sunak faces electoral defeat. The incident underscores the deep divides within the UK’s ruling party, characterized by frequent turnovers in leadership and ministerial positions.
Suella Braverman, formerly Fernandes, represents Fareham in southeast England and succeeded Priti Patel as the Conservative Party Member of Parliament. A Goan-origin barrister, she served as the Attorney General in Boris Johnson’s government. Braverman, a pro-Brexit figure advocating a clear break from Europe, aspires to withdraw the UK from the European Court of Human Rights. Referencing her migrant background—born to a Hindu Tamil mother and a Goan-origin father who migrated in the 1960s—she emphasizes Britain as a land of hope and opportunity. Despite her bid to replace Johnson as Tory leader, Braverman was eliminated in the second round of the initial ballot and threw her support behind Liz Truss. Braverman’s relationship with Truss soured, leading to her resignation over using private email for ministerial communication. Her maternity leave prompted a legal change allowing her to remain a Cabinet minister while giving birth. A Buddhist, Braverman regularly attends the London Buddhist Centre and took her oath of office in Parliament on the ‘Dhammapada,’ reflecting Lord Buddha’s sayings. As she transitions to the backbenches, her departure adds to the complexities within the Conservative party and raises questions about its future leadership.
