The thing is, it's better the devil you know. Despite everything, he's been dealing with the pandemic for 15 months now and has gained considerable experience. Is it the right time for a new boy to come in, especially who they've chosen?
They've been slinging dirt at him for a while now and now it's stuck. He's done the honourable thing, at least, but it may not necessarily be the best thing as regards dealing with the pandemic.
I'm guessing that's a CCTV image and some smart arse thought it might be fun to leak it to the press?