In a recent statement, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has expressed his strong disapproval of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's decision to leave the D-Day commemorations early, referring to it as "unforgivable" and "completely unacceptable". Sarwar's criticism echoes the sentiments of other political figures, including Commons leader Penny Mordaunt and the Scottish Conservatives' chairman Craig Hoy.

During a televised election debate, Mordaunt remarked that Sunak's early departure was "completely wrong", while Hoy agreed that the Prime Minister had made a mistake. These remarks were further supported by SNP leader John Swinney, who had previously condemned Sunak's actions. Scottish Lib Dem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton even suggested that the incident could have long-lasting consequences for Sunak's career.

The Prime Minister left the 80th anniversary event in France on Thursday, missing a ceremony at Omaha Beach, which was instead attended by Foreign Secretary David Cameron. Sarwar, who was campaigning on the Isle of Lewis at the time, criticized Sunak and argued that he should be held accountable for his actions.

John Swinney, who had attended the commemorations in Portsmouth and Normandy, went on to say that Sunak had been "rendered useless" by his early departure. Swinney predicted that voters would punish the Conservative Party on July 4th as a result.

Craig Hoy, the Scottish Conservative chairman, expressed the view that Sunak should have remained at the commemoration event instead of traveling to London for an ITV interview. However, Hoy dismissed calls for the Prime Minister to resign, emphasizing that Sunak had apologized for his actions and should learn from the criticism he received.

In an apology issued on Friday, the Prime Minister urged people not to politicize the event and stated that he cared deeply about veterans and was honored to attend services in Portsmouth and France. Sunak admitted that it was a mistake to not have stayed in France longer and expressed remorse for his decision.

As the public absorbs the fallout from Sunak's actions, political observers are highlighting the potential impact on the ongoing election campaign. Alex Cole-Hamilton, the Scottish Lib Dem leader, wrote that moments like these can define or even end careers during elections.

Despite the criticism, a minister loyal to Sunak has stated that the Prime Minister now has two options - either to lose his head or to continue with the campaign. It remains to be seen how Sunak's early departure from the D-Day commemorations will shape public opinion and impact the upcoming election.