A covert campaign to bring back former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson as Conservative Party leader is gaining momentum, as senior party insiders seek to oust current leader Kemi Badenoch just six months into her tenure.
According to The UK Sun on Sunday, a group of former Conservative MPs is actively discussing Johnson’s return to frontline politics.
The decision is said to be driven by panic over the party’s plummeting poll numbers and fears of electoral extinction at the hands of Nigel Farage’s Reform UK.
The Push for Johnson’s Return
The revelation follows a YouGov poll placing the Conservatives in fourth place, behind the Liberal Democrats, which intensified concerns about Badenoch’s leadership.
The Party believes that Boris is the man who can take on Nigel Farage and win.
In contrast, under Badenoch, the party lags in third place, fueling calls for a change. Disheartened MPs describe the situation as “pretty grim.”
Badenoch’s Struggles and Defenders
Kemi Badenoch, who became leader in November 2024 after defeating Robert Jenrick, faces mounting pressure.
This comes after the Tories lost over 600 councillors and all controlled councils in May 2025’s local elections.
Her leadership has been criticized for failing to counter Reform UK’s rise, with some MPs warning the party risks being supplanted as the dominant right-wing force.
However, Badenoch retains support from allies like Michael Gove, who praised her “courage” on Times Radio.
Gove argued she has “shown a courage that very few other people in British politics have.”
A Conservative source also laid emphasis on Badenoch’s efforts to develop policies, revitalize Tory HQ, and hold Labour accountable.
Further noting her commitment to rebuilding public trust through nationwide engagement.
Johnson’s Resignation and Challenges
Johnson resigned as Prime Minister in September 2022 after a series of scandals, including the “Partygate” controversy, where he was fined for attending lockdown-breaking gatherings in Downing Street.
There was also the “Chris Pincher scandal,” where Johnson appointed Pincher as deputy chief whip despite misconduct allegations, triggered mass resignations, including those of Rishi Sunak and Sajid Javid, eroding his party’s confidence.
Johnson”s handling of the cost-of-living crisis and tax hikes further alienated MPs, leading to his exit.
Looking Ahead
The Conservative Party’s existential crisis, with fears of being overtaken by Reform UK, has reignited speculation about Johnson’s return.
While his charisma and 2019 election success make him appealing to some, his controversial tenure and Badenoch’s resistance pose significant hurdles.
As the Tories face another leadership challenge, the party’s ability to unify and counter Farage’s growing influence remains uncertain.