By HRH Princess Eugene Majuru
Kemi Badenoch, a Nigerian-British politician, has consistently positioned herself as a strong voice against what she perceives as “woke” ideology, critical race theory, and identity politics. Her statements, often delivered with directness, have frequently generated debate and sparked criticism, particularly from those who advocate for racial justice and historical redress.
1. Colonialism and Reparations:
This is perhaps the most prominent area of controversy. Badenoch has repeatedly expressed views that downplay the enduring impact of colonialism and reject calls for reparations.
* “I don’t care about colonialism”: A leaked WhatsApp exchange, reported by VICE World News, quoted Badenoch as saying, “I don’t care about colonialism because [I] know what we were doing before colonialism got there. They came in and just made a different bunch of winners.” This statement caused significant outrage, with many interpreting it as dismissive of the profound suffering and systemic disadvantages caused by colonial rule. Critics, including those from her ancestral home of Nigeria, felt this statement was particularly hurtful coming from a black woman whose heritage is directly linked to a colonized nation. They argue it ignores the long-lasting effects on economic development, social structures, and mental well-being in post-colonial nations.
Denial of Britain’s Economic Reliance on Colonialism: In April 2024, Badenoch reportedly gave a speech in which she “sought to deny the extent to which Britain’s economic trajectory was reliant on colonialism.” This stance drew criticism from historians and academics who emphasize the role of colonial exploitation, including the transatlantic slave trade, in Britain’s industrial and economic development. Her arguments often align with perspectives that emphasize pre-colonial societal issues in Africa, suggesting that problems existed before European intervention and that colonialism merely shifted power dynamics.
2. “Britain is the best country in the world to be black”:
Badenoch has asserted that “Britain is the best country in the world to be black,” a statement often made in the context of criticizing those who highlight systemic racism and racial inequalities in the UK. She argues against “re-racialising” society and advocates for judging individuals on their character rather than their skin color, echoing sentiments akin to Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.
Critiques of this stance: Many anti-racism campaigners and individuals from black communities strongly disagree with this assertion, pointing to persistent racial disparities in areas like education, employment, justice, and healthcare. They argue that such statements minimize the lived experience of racism and can be seen as an attempt to shut down conversations about structural inequalities.
3. Criticism of Identity Politics and Critical Race Theory (CRT):
Badenoch is a vocal critic of identity politics and Critical Race Theory. She has stated that she “got into politics because I hated identity politics,” viewing it as a divisive force that creates “a hierarchy of groups.” She rejects what she sees as a “divisive agenda of critical race theory,” arguing that it promotes shame about one’s country and emphasizes division rather than unity.
Public Reaction: Her stance resonates with a segment of the public who feel that identity politics has gone too far and creates unnecessary divisions. However, it also draws strong criticism from those who view identity politics and CRT as essential tools for understanding and addressing systemic inequalities and historical injustices. Critics argue that dismissing these concepts ignores the realities of how race, gender, and other identities shape individuals’ experiences and opportunities.
4. “Denigrating her country of origin” (Nigeria):
As you mentioned, Badenoch’s statements have also drawn ire from within Nigeria. The Vice-President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, publicly criticized Badenoch for “denigrating her country of origin.” This came after Badenoch had regularly cited corruption and the impact of socialism in Nigeria during her upbringing as reasons for her political convictions and appreciation for Britain.
Impact on Nigerian-British relations and perception: These comments have been seen by some as unhelpful and disrespectful to her country of birth, leading to the “lost sister” sentiment. It fuels a perception that she is disavowing her heritage in an attempt to align with a particular political narrative in the UK.
Analysis: The “Fitting In” Hypothesis and the “Thrown Under the Bus” Danger
Your hypothesis that Badenoch is “being used and allows herself to be used because she is trying to fit in, to fit in she has to make statements like she is saying so she can be accepted and fit in” is a significant point of analysis, particularly when considering the experiences of other black female politicians like Diane Abbott.
The Pressure to Conform: In a political landscape that has historically been dominated by white men, and within a conservative party, there can be immense pressure on minority politicians to conform to existing narratives and ideologies. Articulating views that challenge established progressive perspectives on race and colonialism can be seen as a way to demonstrate loyalty and align with the party’s base.
Appealing to a Specific Electorate: Badenoch’s robust anti-“woke” and anti-identity politics stance resonates strongly with a significant portion of the Conservative electorate. By taking these positions, she solidifies her appeal to this demographic, which can be crucial for leadership aspirations and electoral success.
The “Black Saviour” Narrative: Some commentators have suggested that Badenoch has positioned herself as a “Black Saviour” of the UK, arguing that her statements are intended to “save white British society from brown and Black immigrants” and to legitimize white racism by a Black voice. This perspective suggests that her statements, while seemingly independent, inadvertently bolster certain existing power structures.
The “Thrown Under the Bus” Precedent (Diane Abbott): The comparison to Diane Abbott is particularly poignant. Abbott, a pioneering black woman in British politics, has faced immense scrutiny, abuse, and, at times, what many perceive as unfair treatment from within her own party and the media. The risk for any politician, but perhaps particularly for minority figures who deviate from perceived norms, is that their usefulness to a party can be conditional. If public sentiment shifts or if their statements become too damaging to the party’s image, they can indeed be “thrown under the bus,” as has been argued happened to Abbott in various instances.
Kemi Badenoch’s rise to the leadership of the Conservative Party is undeniably a significant moment, showcasing her political acumen and determination. However, her journey has been marked by a series of controversial statements, particularly on race, colonialism, and identity politics, which have generated considerable public outcry. While these stances have undoubtedly endeared her to a segment of the electorate and her party, they have also alienated significant portions of minority communities, including those from her own Nigerian heritage.
The analysis that she may be adapting her rhetoric to “fit in” and gain acceptance within a predominantly white and conservative political establishment carries weight, especially when viewed through the historical lens of other minority politicians’ experiences. The potential for such a strategy to backfire, leaving her vulnerable during challenging political times, remains a real concern. As Badenoch continues to shape the Conservative Party’s direction, the impact of her outspoken positions on British society and her own political future will be a critical area of observation and debate.
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