UK conservatives grapple with dissent over Rwanda migrant plan

U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing internal dissent within his Conservative party over his proposal to send migrants to Rwanda

In a bid to fulfill his commitment to curbing immigration, U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been facing internal dissent within his Conservative party over his proposal to send migrants to Rwanda.

This move, a central component of the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill, has sparked tensions, reminiscent of the party’s internal struggles during the Brexit era.

On Tuesday, two deputy chairs of the Conservatives resigned, aligning with dozens of right-wing Tory members supporting amendments aimed at strengthening the migration plan.

The bill, responding to a U.K. Supreme Court ruling deeming the deportation of asylum seekers to Rwanda illegal, seeks to designate Rwanda as a safe third country, granting ministers powers to override international and British human rights legislation.

Despite opposition, Sunak has faced down rebels in the past, winning a narrow parliamentary vote on the issue last month.

However, recent amendments, backed by 58 Tory lawmakers, indicate growing discontent within the party. Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who initially introduced the Rwanda scheme, also supported the amendments.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) expressed concern, stating that the bill and a recent treaty with Kigali were inconsistent with international refugee law.

The proposed legislation has reopened divisions between right-wing and centrist Tory MPs, creating a challenging situation for Sunak as he attempts to navigate the delicate balance within his party.

As the bill faces a crucial vote expected on Wednesday night, Sunak’s leadership is under scrutiny. The rebels, while unsuccessful in their amendments, may pose a significant challenge to the bill’s passage. Sunak’s government, seeking to address concerns about potential court delays, announced plans to hire new judges to fast-track deportation cases.

The developments underscore the political complexity Sunak faces as he contends with internal strife while steering the U.K. toward a general election.

Polls suggest a challenging outlook for the Conservatives, with Sunak emphasizing the necessity of the Rwanda bill to deter migrants and accusing the Labour Party of lacking a coherent plan on immigration.

As the prime minister navigates these challenges, the fate of the Rwanda legislation hangs in the balance, impacting not only the party’s unity but also Sunak’s leadership ahead of the impending general election.

Source: AFP