Boris Johnson, in his final speech outside Downing Street, compared himself to a Roman statesman known for his devotion to the republic in times of crisis.
Boris Johnson delivered his farewell speech to the nation, describing himself as a “booster rocket that has fulfilled its function”.
“This is it, folks,” the outgoing prime minister said outside a packed Downing Street.
Mr Johnson promised to “stand by Liz Truss every step of the way” and told the Conservative Party that “it is time to get behind” the new prime minister.
He praised his administration’s accomplishments, highlighting Brexit, vaccine rollout, and response to the Ukraine war.
He blamed President Putin for rising energy prices and stated that Ms Truss and her government “will do everything they can to get through this crisis.”
Mr Johnson hinted at his future plans, saying, “On the subject of bouncing around in future careers, let me say that I am now like one of those booster rockets that has fulfilled its function.”
“And I will now be gently re-entering the atmosphere and splashing down invisibly in some remote and obscure corner of the Pacific.”
He went on to compare himself to Cincinnatus – a Roman statesman who resigned and returned to his farm.
Mr Johnson is expected to be defiant and launch a Trump-style comeback from the backbenches.
Before Liz Truss arrives, the outgoing prime minister will travel to Balmoral to formally tender his resignation to the Queen.