Labour Party Plunged into Civil War as Starmer Blocks Burnham’s By-Election Bid
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Labour’s internal divisions deepened on Sunday, January 25, 2026, as a contentious decision by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) prevented Andy Burnham from contesting an upcoming by-election in the North West. The move has ignited a firestorm of criticism and raised serious questions about the leadership of Keir Starmer.
Starmer’s Allies Halt Burnham’s Campaign
The Labour party was thrown into disarray after a ruling by the NEC, comprised of Starmer’s closest allies, blocked Burnham’s candidacy for the Gorton and denton race. The vote, eight to one, effectively disqualifies the current Mayor of Greater Manchester from even appearing on the shortlist of potential candidates. Notably, Sir Keir Starmer himself cast a vote against Burnham’s participation, while NEC chair Shabana Mahmood abstained.
The decision comes amidst a period of low approval ratings for Starmer and a series of policy reversals,fueling perceptions of instability within the party. Burnham had already garnered significant support, including backing from Labour’s deputy leader Lucy powell, and reports indicated that former deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner was also prepared to endorse the “King of the North.”
Outcry from Within Labour Ranks
The NEC’s decision has triggered a wave of condemnation from within the Labour party. John McDonnell, who served as shadow Chancellor under Jeremy Corbyn, described the move as “disgusting,” warning Starmer not to underestimate the resulting anger. “Message to Keir: Do not underestimate the depth of anger people will feel about this disgusting decision. If you think it strengthens you I tell you it will simply hasten your demise,” he stated.
Rosie Duffield, who left the Labour party in 2024 to become an Self-reliant, echoed this sentiment, asserting that the decision “highlights how loathed and weak Sir Keir is.”
Justification and Political Fallout
Labour’s ruling committee justified the decision by citing concerns about triggering “an unneeded by-election” for the Greater Manchester mayoralty, which they argued would divert “substantial and disproportionate impact on party campaign resources.” Though,this explanation has failed to quell the growing discontent.
The Conservative party seized on the internal strife, with shadow home secretary Chris Philip claiming Starmer is “so weak and scared he won’t even allow Andy Burnham to run for parliament.” Philip added, “Starmer is scared Burnham would replace him, so has used his control of the NEC to block him. To be fair, Burnham could hardly be worse.”
Despite the turmoil, some within Labour attempted to downplay the meaning of the decision. John Slinger, involved in Labour’s 2024 general election efforts, suggested the “quick and clear decision” would allow the party to “move on from the damaging, introspection and psychodrama of the last week.” He emphasized the need for unity, stating, “We need to pull together behind whoever is selected in the by-election. As a united team we can beat Reform and then focus on vital elections in May.”
Concerns Over Economic Policy and Bond Markets
The controversy surrounding Burnham’s potential return to frontline politics also raised concerns about his economic views. The move may ease some pressure from bond markets, which modestly edged up on thursday after the speculation of an Andy Burnham return to government. Burnham has previously characterized the UK as being trapped in a “low growth doom loop,” criticizing the political system’s inability to address the issue. he has advocated for “business-friendly socialism” and increased public ownership, especially in sectors like water and rail.
These proposals sparked fears that a Burnham-led government might prioritize economic intervention over adherence to fiscal rules, perhaps unsettling the bond markets.
The unfolding events underscore the deep fractures within the Labour party and the precarious position of Keir Starmer as he attempts to navigate a challenging political landscape.
