Rishi Sunak humiliated by YouTube prankster after election loss

Rishi Sunak fell victim to a YouTube prank by Niko Omilana after a significant Labour victory

In a night marked by a significant Labour victory, Conservative leader Rishi Sunak experienced an embarrassing moment during his speech after the Tories were ousted from power. While addressing his constituents in Richmond and Northallerton, where he retained his seat, YouTube prankster Niko Omilana appeared behind him holding a paper with the letter "L", symbolizing "loser". Omilana, who stood as an independent candidate and secured 160 votes, claimed responsibility for the prank on social media, stating: “Hold this L Rishi, your time is up.”

Sunak described the election results as “a sobering verdict” and acknowledged the loss: “There is much to learn, and I take responsibility for the loss.” He expressed his sympathy to Conservative candidates who lost their seats despite their efforts and dedication: “I am sorry.” Prominent Tories such as Liz Truss, Penny Mordaunt, and Grant Shapps were among those who lost their seats.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, set to become Prime Minister, declared that change “begins now”. He emphasized Labour’s readiness to serve the country and restore its service to working people, promising an “age of national renewal”. Starmer acknowledged the challenges ahead but noted the optimism: “The sunlight of hope was… shining once again in a country with an opportunity after 14 years to get its future back.”

In a notable exception to Labour's landslide, former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn retained his Islington North seat as an independent with 24,120 votes, surpassing Labour candidate Praful Nargund’s 16,873 votes. Corbyn highlighted the positive nature of his campaign and its message of unity: “This result is a resounding message from the people of Islington North that they want something better.” He dedicated his victory to the people of Islington North, attributing his success to them.