Canceled British PM Boris Johnson: I Support Whoever Gets Elected

JAKARTA - Boris Johnson on Sunday evening said he had pulled out of the race to become Britain's next Prime Minister, saying he realized the country and the Conservative Party needed unity.

Here's what Boris Johnson said:

"In recent days I have been overwhelmed by the number of people who have suggested that I once again fight for the leadership of the Conservative Party, both among the public and among friends and colleagues in parliament," Johnson said.

"I am intrigued because I led our party to a massive election victory less than three years ago, and I believe I am therefore uniquely placed to prevent elections now."

"The general election will be a further disastrous distraction when the government must focus on the economic pressures families face across the country," he said.

"I believe I am well placed to deliver a Conservative win in 2024 - and tonight I can confirm that I have crossed a very high hurdle of 102 nominations, including nominees and nominees, and I can submit my nominations tomorrow. It's good that I'm going to be successful in the election with the Conservatives, and that I can indeed be back in Downing Street on Friday," Johnson said.

"But in recent days I have sadly come to the conclusion that this is not the right thing to do. You cannot govern effectively unless you have a unified party in parliament."

"And although I have contacted Rishi (Sunak) and Penny (Mordaunt) - as I hope we can unite in the national interest - unfortunately we cannot find a way to do this.

"I, therefore, fear the best thing is that I will not allow my candidacy to run, and give my support to whoever is elected.

"I'm sure I have a lot to offer, but I'm afraid this isn't the right time," Johnson said.

Johnson needed the support of 100 people on Monday to move on to the next stage, which would see him face off against Sunak in a vote by 170,000 Conservative Party members.

Meanwhile, Sunak, whose resignation as finance minister in July helped hasten Johnson's downfall, has reached the threshold of 100 lawmakers needed to advance to the next stage, securing the 142 supporters declared on Sunday, according to Sky News.

He will be appointed leader of the Conservative Party and prime minister on Monday unless candidate Penny Mordaunt, the former defense minister, reaches the 100-support threshold to force a second round of elections by party members. He had 24 supporters declared on Sunday.