Janice R. Andrews
Recent developments suggest that Kemi Badenoch, who has just won the Conservative Party leadership with 57% of member votes, is receptive to establishing a clear leadership structure for the Welsh Conservatives. This could address longtime requests for a single party figurehead in Wales.
The Welsh Conservative Senedd chairman, Samuel Kurtz, revealed that Badenoch is considering proposals to clarify Welsh Conservative representation. Currently, leadership responsibilities in Wales are divided between three individuals: Andrew RT Davies (Senedd group leader), Tomos Dafydd Davies (Welsh party chairman), and Lord Byron Davies (shadow secretary of state for Wales).
This potential reorganization comes amid calls from party members to consolidate leadership under the Senedd group leader. The situation has revealed some internal dynamics, as Andrew RT Davies had previously supported Badenoch’s rival, Robert Jenrick, in the leadership contest. Despite this, Davies promptly pledged his support to Badenoch after her victory, emphasizing the importance of party unity in challenging Labour’s governance in Wales.
Kurtz expressed confidence in future discussions with Badenoch about restructuring Welsh Conservative leadership. Meanwhile, Badenoch has committed to an inclusive approach, promising to work with Conservative representatives across all UK regions, including the devolved assemblies.
The potential leadership reorganization could prove crucial as the party prepares for the 2026 Senedd election. Many party members believe that having a single, clear leader would enhance accountability and strengthen their position against Labour in Wales.
Badenoch’s openness to these changes marks a possible turning point for Welsh Conservatives, with the party awaiting concrete decisions on how she will address the leadership structure while pursuing her broader goal of Conservative Party unity across the United Kingdom.
