Kemi Badenoch has spoken openly about the racial abuse she has faced since becoming leader of the Conservative Party. She is the first Black woman to hold this position and admits she did not expect the level of hostility.

In an interview, Badenoch described the scale of attacks as “hysterical,” saying both online critics and a few MPs have tried to undermine her. “There’s a certain cadre of people who clearly can’t cope with the fact that I won this and I’m doing it,” she said.

She also noted that social media has fueled much of the negativity, with ethnic-based tropes questioning her success. According to her, some critics suggest she could not have achieved the leadership role on her own.

Badenoch explained that online abuse has revealed rising ethno-nationalism in Britain. She called this trend dangerous, especially when linked to political discourse. “There’s a lot of ethno-nationalism creeping up, lots of stuff about my race and my ethnicity,” she said.

Despite the attacks, Badenoch stressed that she tries not to default to racism as the sole explanation for criticism. She argued that a balanced approach is important when leading a diverse nation. “I always try to think of every possible explanation before I go to race and racism,” she noted.

Her remarks reflect her long-standing criticism of anti-racism campaigners and critical race theory. She has previously argued that Britain is not a racist country and that ethnic minorities are thriving compared to some white working-class communities.

Born in Wimbledon and raised partly in Nigeria, Badenoch returned to the UK at age 16. Despite her Nigerian upbringing, she has said she no longer identifies as Nigerian and sees herself firmly as British.

She has been outspoken about identity politics and has often resisted attempts to define her leadership through race. Her stance has attracted both praise and criticism, shaping her reputation as a divisive yet influential figure in British politics.

As party leader, Badenoch faces major challengesbeyond racism and personal attacks. The Conservatives are currently polling at just 17%, a figure that has sparked internal speculation about her leadership.

Reports suggest that Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick could position himself as a challenger. Badenoch dismissed this as “wishful thinking” and insisted that some rivals were motivated by “sore loser” attitudes.

She also warned colleagues against treating leadership struggles as political games. “The lives of people in this country aren’t a game,” she said, highlighting her commitment to serious governance.

Badenoch is now preparing for her firstConservative Party conference speech. This moment will test her ability to unite the party and reassure voters.

While her leadership has already been marked by strong resistance, she remains determined to press forward. For Badenoch, the attacks represent both a personal trial and a defining moment in her political journey.