Senior Conservatives Reportedly Plot to Replace Kemi Badenoch with Boris Johnson

A secret campaign is reportedly underway among senior Conservative figures to oust current party leader Kemi Badenoch and bring back former Prime Minister Boris Johnson. According to *The Sun on Sunday*, a group of former Conservative MPs is actively lobbying for Johnson’s return, believing he is the only figure capable of countering the rising popularity of Nigel Farage and the Reform UK party.

This development follows a damning YouGov poll that placed the Conservatives in fourth place behind the Liberal Democrats, sparking widespread panic within the party ranks. Disillusioned MPs are said to view the poll as a breaking point, with growing concern that continuing under Badenoch’s leadership could lead to political annihilation.

A senior Tory quoted by *The Sun* said, “Some of the old gang around Boris Johnson are back texting and in talks to get him to return… They want to bring back Boris.” Another insider claimed there are even individuals within Conservative Party headquarters discreetly working on what has been dubbed “Project Boris.”

One Conservative MP described the current party situation as “pretty grim,” while others believe Johnson remains the only political heavyweight capable of reclaiming voters lost to Reform UK. A More in Common poll has added fuel to the speculation, suggesting that under Johnson’s leadership, the Conservatives could edge out both Reform UK and Labour, securing 26% of the vote.

Despite the internal turmoil, Badenoch has received public support from allies such as former Cabinet minister Michael Gove, who praised her “courage” and “political instincts” in an interview with *Times Radio*. Nevertheless, former Johnson aide Guto Harri hinted that another leadership battle may be on the horizon.

A Conservative Party spokesperson has dismissed the rumours, warning against the idea that changing leaders six months after Badenoch took the helm would resolve the party’s problems. The spokesperson emphasised that Badenoch is focused on rebuilding the party, developing a strong policy platform, and holding the Labour government to account.

Kemi Badenoch became leader following the party’s historic defeat in 2024. Her supporters argue she is committed to reengaging voters and travelling across the country to restore trust in the Conservative brand.

Boris Johnson resigned as Prime Minister in September 2022 following a series of damaging scandals, including the “Partygate” controversy and his appointment of Chris Pincher despite misconduct allegations. Johnson’s tenure ended amid mass resignations from ministers and deep divisions within the party.

While some Conservatives see Johnson as a political liability, others are now openly entertaining the idea of his return as a last-ditch effort to revive the party’s fortunes.