Kemi Badenoch marked one hundred days as leader of the Conservative Party, a period during which several MPs and former advisers have raised questions about her leadership style and approach to key responsibilities.

Some insiders have noted that Badenoch appears reluctant to take on media duties; one former adviser was quoted as saying, 'Kemi absolutely hates doing media.

She does not see it as an integral part of her job.'

Some Conservative MPs observed that in the first eighteen months after an election loss, a cautious approach may be expected, although concerns remain that limited media engagement could affect public recognition of key figures in the shadow cabinet, such as Chris Philp.

Other criticisms focus on the basics of party leadership, including fundraising and attendance at constituency events.

Senior figures have highlighted that the daily demands of the role require significant effort, with one MP remarking that the work involves extensive 'graft.'

Additional internal issues include a significant reduction in party resources.

Reports indicate that staff numbers at the party headquarters have fallen from around two hundred to about sixty, and there are estimates that the party may need to raise approximately five million pounds in the coming months to maintain operations.

Cost-cutting measures under consideration include relocating from the current Westminster office on Matthew Parker Street, while the future of the northern headquarters in Leeds remains uncertain.

Badenoch’s leadership team is described as small and closely knit.

Chief of staff Lee Rowley and director of strategy Rachel Maclean, both former ministers who lost their seats at the last election, are noted as key advisers alongside former adviser Henry Newman.

Some party insiders have expressed concern that this team may lack sufficient experience in operating in opposition, a factor that could impact their ability to challenge the government effectively.

There have also been discussions among some party members about the possibility of closer ties with Reform UK. One Tory insider estimated that there is a forty percent chance the Conservative Party might not survive in its current form.

Several MPs and peers, including figures such as Lord Alton, Helena Kennedy, and Harriet Harman, have voiced disappointment over the lack of clear direction and progress under the current leadership.

While supporters of Badenoch argue that a cautious approach in the aftermath of a significant election defeat may allow time for strategic development, the internal debate over media engagement, operational challenges, and long-term strategy continues.