Keir Starmer’s recent decision to prevent Andy Burnham from contesting the byelection for Greater Manchester mayor has sparked a significant backlash within the Labour Party. By sidelining a prominent figure like Burnham, Starmer not only fuels dissent but also risks solidifying his own position as a leader lacking both vision and courage. With his absence from crucial parliamentary events coinciding with a trip to China, questions are mounting over his strategic judgement as Labour faces a critical juncture.
A Self-Inflicted Wound
Labour’s penchant for self-sabotage is becoming increasingly evident. In a move that many see as politically reckless, Starmer’s decision to block Burnham from the Gorton and Denton byelection has transformed the latter into a symbol of northern resilience, while casting Starmer as indecisive and fearful. Critics argue that Burnham’s potential candidacy could have invigorated a party in need of direction, offering a chance to either consolidate power within Labour or confront any insurrection head-on. Instead, Starmer chose a path of avoidance, opting for procedural manoeuvring that left many within the party disillusioned.
Starmer’s timing could not be worse. As he prepares to leave for China with senior cabinet members, his absence from Prime Minister’s Questions and the weekly Labour parliamentary meeting raises eyebrows. This strategic blunder may have far-reaching consequences, particularly as Burnham’s decision to stand for mayor was seen as a bold gamble amid an uncertain political landscape. Had Burnham succeeded, Labour could have faced an invigorated challenge, but by blocking him, Starmer may have inadvertently gifted momentum to the opposition.
The Stakes of the Byelection
The stakes surrounding the Manchester mayoralty are monumental. Should the Reform party, led by Nigel Farage, secure a victory in this byelection, it would signal a disastrous loss for Labour that could reverberate nationally. Burnham’s bid carried inherent risks, including the threat of losing to insurgent parties or independent candidates. However, his willingness to take that risk underscored a deep-seated ambition to rescue Labour from its current malaise.
Polling suggests that a significant majority of Labour members—66%—believe Burnham should have been allowed to compete. His popularity among the party ranks, scoring 48% approval compared to Starmer’s 26%, has only heightened the scrutiny of Starmer’s leadership. The fallout from this decision could lead to calls for a leadership contest that might see Burnham challenge Starmer directly, potentially galvanising support from disenchanted party members.
The Case for New Leadership
As Labour grapples with its identity, the notion of selecting a new leader is becoming increasingly urgent. The party must find someone who can unite its diverse factions and appeal to a broad spectrum of voters, particularly as the threat from Farage’s Reform UK looms large. The new leader will need to champion immediate electoral reform to ensure that every party receives fair representation, countering the risk of a repeat of past mistakes.
The pressing need for decisive action cannot be overstated. With local elections on the horizon, Labour must avoid any further internal squabbles that could hinder its chances. Starmer’s cautious approach, while rooted in a desire to maintain party cohesion, risks alienating a base yearning for strong and decisive leadership.
Why it Matters
The ramifications of these developments extend beyond mere party politics; they represent a critical moment for Labour as it seeks to redefine its role in an increasingly polarised political landscape. Starmer’s inability to effectively communicate his vision, coupled with his recent decisions, may lead to a broader crisis of confidence among voters. As Labour faces the prospect of losing ground in both Scotland and Wales, the urgency for a new leader capable of rallying support against the right-wing resurgence is paramount. The party stands at a crossroads, and the choice made in the coming weeks will determine its trajectory amidst a volatile political climate.
