In a stunning development, former British Prime Minister David Cameron has reentered the political arena, taking up the position of the country’s foreign secretary. The surprise appointment was made by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as part of a broader reshuffling of his top team.
Cameron, 57, served as the British prime minister from 2010 to 2016, resigning in the aftermath of the Brexit referendum when the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union. After leaving office, Cameron spent the last seven years writing memoirs and engaging in business ventures, including his involvement with Greensill Capital, a finance firm that ultimately collapsed.
The collapse of Greensill Capital raised questions about the influence of former leaders on government policy, as Cameron was found to have lobbied senior ministers in 2020 on behalf of the firm. Despite this controversy, Sunak’s office announced on Monday that King Charles had approved giving Cameron a seat in the House of Lords, facilitating his return to government as a minister even though he is no longer an elected member of parliament.
Cameron’s return to the front-line of British politics comes at a critical time, marked by international challenges such as the war in Ukraine and the crisis in the Middle East. In a statement shared on messaging platform X (formerly Twitter), Cameron expressed his commitment to assisting Prime Minister Sunak in addressing these pressing global issues.
“The Prime Minister has asked me to serve as his Foreign Secretary, and I have gladly accepted,” Cameron stated. He highlighted the importance of the UK standing by its allies, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring the country’s voice is heard amid profound global changes.
While acknowledging disagreements with some individual decisions, Cameron praised Sunak’s leadership, describing him as a strong and capable Prime Minister. He expressed a desire to contribute to delivering security and prosperity for the country, emphasizing his belief in public service and the honor of serving the United Kingdom.
Cameron’s appointment adds an intriguing dimension to the UK’s diplomatic landscape, and his return to government will undoubtedly be closely watched both domestically and internationally.
