Rishi Sunak’s tenure as prime minister, lasting 619 days, has been the subject of detailed analysis following his departure from Number 10. Despite facing unprecedented challenges, some observers argue that Sunak’s legacy is more substantial than commonly acknowledged, while others point to significant missteps that contributed to his rapid political decline.

Sunak assumed office in October 2022 amid considerable turmoil within the Conservative Party and the broader UK political landscape. His predecessor, Liz Truss, had left the government and the country’s economic situation in disarray, described by some as a period of “mayhem.” Close allies had initially advised Sunak against seeking the premiership, warning of a divided party, a rebellious civil service, and an impending general election likely to hand victory to Labour. Sunak himself reportedly expressed reluctance about taking the job due to anticipated political fallout.

During his time as prime minister, Sunak focused on stabilising the UK economy and restoring order in Downing Street, cultivating respect among civil servants and maintaining a cohesive team environment. Efforts to foster goodwill included initiatives such as social gatherings for MPs’ families known as “Whaps.” Sunak’s work ethic, attention to detail, and measured composure under pressure were often noted as strengths. He was credited with engaging with modern technologies and founding the AI Safety Institute, gaining praise for progressive moves including an anti-smoking policy that aimed to outlaw cigarette sales in the future.

Sunak also negotiated agreements to ease tensions surrounding the Northern Ireland protocol post-Brexit. However, critics highlight several controversial decisions during his premiership that damaged his standing. One notable example was the Rwanda asylum relocation scheme, which cost taxpayers over £700 million but did not result in any deportation flights, drawing criticism for its ineffectiveness and political motivations. Additionally, tax cuts introduced close to the 2024 general election—such as reductions in employee national insurance—were regarded by some analysts as fiscally irresponsible and politically unproductive.

Political insiders suggest Sunak was reluctant to fully break with the legacies of his predecessors, Boris Johnson and Liz Truss. He did not deliver a comprehensive repudiation of the Truss government’s ill-fated mini-budget, nor did he strongly condemn Johnson’s actions amid the Partygate scandal, even avoiding a key parliamentary vote that ultimately led to Johnson’s expulsion from parliament. This caution was seen as an attempt to avoid alienating powerful factions within his party but arguably undermined his ability to present himself as a reforming leader.

Though some colleagues and commentators assert that the Conservative Party’s electoral defeat in 2024 was largely inevitable given the political climate, others attribute some losses to Sunak’s misjudgments during the campaign. His choice to call an early election, an ill-timed launch event in poor weather, and his early departure from D-Day commemorations were viewed as lapses in political judgment that hurt the party’s image and electoral performance.

Observers conclude that while Sunak possessed many qualities essential for leadership—such as integrity, intellect, and perseverance—his premiership was hampered by adverse circumstances and certain strategic errors. The consensus suggests that although Sunak’s time as prime minister was short-lived, it is doubtful he will be the last Conservative to hold the office.