In a pivotal showdown for British politics, Andy Burnham is set to face off against Reform UK’s Robert Kenyon in the upcoming Makerfield by-election on 18 June. This contest, just outside Wigan, could have significant implications for both Labour and the burgeoning Reform party, with Burnham aiming for a comeback to Westminster as he seeks to shift Labour’s direction.
A Clash of Titans
Burnham, currently the mayor of Greater Manchester, was selected by Labour’s national executive committee as their candidate, with no other contenders making the shortlist. His aspirations are clear—if successful, he may position himself as a contender against Keir Starmer for the party leadership. In a statement, Burnham expressed gratitude for his selection, vowing to highlight the often-overlooked issues in areas like Makerfield.
On the other side, Kenyon, a local plumber and army reservist who narrowly lost the 2024 general election by 5,399 votes, is being promoted as a grassroots candidate who represents the community. However, his candidacy is marred by controversy. Scrutiny has surfaced regarding his past social media interactions, including sceptical remarks about vaccine efficacy and connections with far-right influencers.
Controversial Background
Kenyon has faced backlash over previously deleted posts on social media that include questioning a vaccine’s effectiveness and praising former US President Donald Trump. His account on X was suspended, raising questions about his online presence and political affiliations. In a recent video, Kenyon accused Burnham of using the Makerfield constituency as a mere stepping stone for his political ambitions, a narrative that is likely to feature prominently in the campaign.
“Labour and probably the other parties have got career politicians. They go to private school, to university, they get a job at a thinktank or they are an assistant to an MP and then before you know it they are parachuted into somewhere they have never even visited to stand as an MP,” Kenyon stated, positioning himself as a candidate rooted in local concerns.
The Political Landscape
As the by-election approaches, both Labour and Reform are poised as the frontrunners, but they are not without competition. The far-right party Restore Britain, established by former Reform MP Rupert Lowe, has put forward local businesswoman Rebecca Shepherd as its candidate, while the Green Party is expected to announce their choice soon.
The stakes are high not just for the candidates but also for the political climate in the UK. Starmer, who recently chaired a cabinet meeting, is facing mounting pressure, especially after the resignation of health secretary Wes Streeting, who was seen as a potential rival for the Labour leadership. Meanwhile, Mark Drakeford, the former Labour first minister of Wales, has publicly called for a leadership timetable, suggesting it’s time for renewed direction within the party.
The Road Ahead
As the campaign heats up, both Burnham and Kenyon will have to navigate a landscape marked by heightened scrutiny and shifting voter sentiment. Burnham’s vision of “Manchesterism” will be put to the test against Kenyon’s grassroots appeal. With local issues at the forefront, the battle for Makerfield is set to become a microcosm of the broader political tensions in the UK.
Why it Matters
This by-election is more than just a local contest; it represents a potential turning point for both Labour and Reform UK. A victory for Burnham could signal a reawakening for Labour’s national influence, while a win for Kenyon might embolden Reform and reshape the political landscape in Britain. With both candidates presenting starkly different visions, Makerfield is poised to be a bellwether for future elections.
