Rishi Sunak issues apology following criticism over D-Day comments

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faced backlash from his political rivals after leaving D-Day commemorations in France early to return to the election campaign trail. Sunak, who is fighting to keep his job in Britain’s upcoming election, apologized for his decision, calling it a mistake.

The Prime Minister was notably absent from the major memorial event at Omaha Beach in Normandy on Thursday, where leaders such as U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron were in attendance. Instead, former Prime Minister David Cameron represented the U.K. at the event.

Labour Party leader Keir Starmer, the current favorite to win the election, attended the commemorations and was pictured meeting with world leaders. Sunak had earlier attended ceremonies at the British memorial in Normandy and in Portsmouth, England.

In a statement on social media, Sunak expressed regret for not staying in France longer, acknowledging that the anniversary of the Allied invasion should be about honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. He also addressed allegations made by the opposition regarding his statements on tax plans.

Political rivals criticized Sunak’s decision to prioritize campaigning over the solemn D-Day commemorations. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey called it a “total dereliction of duty,” while Nigel Farage of the Reform U.K. party urged patriotic voters not to support Sunak.

The upcoming election on July 4 will see all 650 seats in the House of Commons up for grabs. The leader of the party that can secure a majority will become the next Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

As the campaign heats up, Sunak’s early departure from the D-Day commemorations has sparked debate about his priorities as Prime Minister. With political rivals seizing on the opportunity to criticize him, Sunak will need to address the fallout from his decision as the election approaches.