Former British Prime Minister Theresa May has confirmed that she will not seek re-election to parliament, joining a growing number of Conservative Party members stepping away from frontline politics later this year.
May assumed the role of prime minister in 2016, succeeding David Cameron who resigned following the unexpected outcome of the Brexit referendum. Tasked with implementing the unprecedented decision to leave the European Union, May faced the challenge without a clear blueprint from her predecessor.
In a statement to her local newspaper, the Maidenhead Advertiser, May explained that her post-premiership focus on global issues, particularly efforts to combat modern slavery and human trafficking, has led her to the decision not to stand for re-election.
“After much careful thought and consideration, I have realized that, looking ahead, I would no longer be able to do my job as an MP (Member of Parliament) in the way I believe is right and my constituents deserve,” she stated.
May’s time as prime minister was marked by the complexities of navigating the Brexit process, dealing with a deeply divided party and nation. Despite her efforts, she resigned in 2019, unable to deliver Brexit on schedule or secure parliamentary approval for her exit plan. Since her resignation, May has continued to serve as a Member of Parliament for her constituency in south-east England.
