Labor Party Embroiled in Civil War Over Gorton and Denton By-Election
The Labour party is facing a deepening internal crisis as the upcoming by-election in gorton and Denton becomes a focal point for a power struggle between manchester mayor Andy Burnham and the leadership of Keir Starmer. The dispute centers on accusations of misleading facts regarding Burnham’s attempt too contest the seat,threatening to further fracture the party ahead of a crucial electoral test.
Burnham Accuses Downing Street of Misinformation
The escalating tensions began after suggestions from allies of Keir Starmer indicated that Burnham had been explicitly warned against seeking candidacy for the Manchester seat. Reacting to a post on X (formerly Twitter) by ITV’s political editor, Robert Peston, which reported sources close to the Prime Minister believed Burnham’s move was a deliberate attempt to destabilize Starmer, Burnham vehemently denied the claims. “This is simply untrue,” he wrote in response to peston’s report.
Peston subsequently reported that a second source corroborated Burnham’s account, adding that the mayor was requesting an urgent call with no. 10 to address the briefing. A spokesperson for No. 10 later stated that no one affiliated with Starmer had informed Burnham that his application would be rejected by the National Executive committee (NEC).
Starmer Urges Voters to Back Labour, warns Against Protest Votes
Despite the internal turmoil, Keir Starmer is publicly urging voters in Gorton and Denton not to abstain from voting, emphasizing that the by-election is a direct contest between Labour and Reform UK. In a letter to be delivered to households on Wednesday, she writes, “No one else is in this race, so sitting it out or planning a protest vote will not stop Reform – it will help them.”
mps Express Concerns Over Blocked Candidacy
the decision to prevent Burnham from running has sparked important dissent within the Labour party,with approximately 50 mps signing a letter to the Prime Minister expressing their concerns. The letter argues that blocking Burnham’s candidacy is a “real gift” to Reform UK. Recent YouGov polling data indicates that 30% of Britons believe Burnham would perform better as Prime minister than Starmer, while only 12% believe he would be worse.
Reform UK Launches Campaign with Controversial Candidate
The battle for Gorton and Denton is now underway, with Reform UK unveiling Matthew Goodwin as their candidate. Goodwin, described as a hard-right activist, has previously made statements suggesting that UK-born individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds are not necessarily British. Powell condemned the selection, stating that it demonstrates Reform UK’s intention to promote “division, animosity and hatred.”
Reform UK faced early embarrassment when MP lee Anderson posted a photo on social media of himself and campaigners in the wrong constituency – Ashton-under-Lyne.Former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner pointed out the gaffe, stating, “Farage’s reform can’t even find the Gorton and Denton constituency on a map. Perhaps it’s because they’re too busy filling their party full of former Tories who failed the contry.”
Labour Scrambles to Select a Candidate
The Labour party is currently interviewing potential candidates to replace Burnham, with a selection expected by Saturday. Bev Craig, the Labour leader of Manchester city council, has ruled herself out of the running.Though,according to Roch Valley Radio,eamonn O’Brien,the leader of Bury council,has submitted an application.
Green Party Sees Chance
Alongside the challenge from Reform UK, Labour will also contend with a revitalized Green party, which believes it has a genuine chance of success following Burnham’s exclusion from the race. Local party members are currently deliberating on a candidate,with Hannah Spencer,leader of the Green group on Trafford council,emerging as a likely contender.
The Gorton and Denton by-election, scheduled for February 26th, is rapidly becoming a critical test for the Labour party, not only in terms of retaining the seat but also in demonstrating its ability to overcome internal divisions and present a united front to the electorate.
