Former British Prime Minister said he was 'forced' to leave the parliamentary seat
Jun 10, 2023
London [UK], June 10: Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on June 9 that he would leave the legislative seat, after being told he would be punished for lying to parliament, according to Reuters news agency.
Specifically, Mr. Johnson resigned after receiving the results of an investigation by lawmakers into the incorrect statements he made to the British parliament about "partygate", a party that attracted many government party members. Attended in the midst of the country being locked down because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The inquiry is chaired by a senior Labor lawmaker, but the majority of lawmakers on the committee are Conservative members. In announcing his resignation, the former British prime minister accused his opponents of trying to get rid of him. "It's sad to have to leave parliament - at least for now," he said.
Former Prime Minister Johnson also said he had received a letter from the Parliamentary Privileges Committee making it clear that lawmakers were determined to use the proceedings to remove him. He accused the investigative committee of having a political calculation in taking this step. "I am being forced out by a small number of people with no evidence to support their claims," he said.
Mr Johnson called the commission investigating him a "stable court". According to Mr Johnson: "Their intention from the beginning was to convict me, regardless of the facts." He hinted that his political career may not be over yet.
Mr Johnson's decision to step down will trigger a special election to replace him in the House of Commons, reopening deep divisions within the ruling Conservative party ahead of a general election expected next year.
The committee said it will meet on June 12 to conclude its investigation and will release a report soon, according to the AP news agency.
Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper
