Kemi Badenoch has declared her candidacy for the Conservative Party leadership, promising to 'renew' the party and return it to its core principles, including a strong focus on sovereignty and capitalism.

At 44, Badenoch is seen as a leading contender following the resignation of ex-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

She joins fellow MPs Dame Priti Patel, Mel Stride, Robert Jenrick, Tom Tugendhat, and James Cleverly in the leadership race.

Badenoch has called for leaving the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) to better control immigration and bolster national security.

Badenoch first became an MP in 2017 and gained significant ministerial experience in Boris Johnson's government.

She is also known for her strong stance on Brexit and trans rights.

The leadership candidates need the support of at least 10 MPs and £200,000 by the first round of voting on Monday.

The new leader is expected to be chosen by party members in an online vote concluding on 31 October, with the results announced on 2 November.