Shahbaz Sarwar, who won the Longsight seat for the Workers Party of Britain in 2024 by defeating Labour's Luthfur Rahman, has defected to the Labour Party.
Sarwar announced his switch to Labour in a Facebook post this week, citing Prime Minister Andy Burnham's apology over Labour's initial response to the war in Gaza as a key factor. He also mentioned his relationship with Manchester council leader Bev Craig.
Reasons for the switch
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, Sarwar said: 'It was due to a bit of everything - Andy Burnham coming into the picture, and the apology that was made and the stance they have taken.' He added: 'I think there's too much division being created, we need to come back and have dialogue again, and not continue to protest anything and everything.'
Sarwar acknowledged that some supporters may be upset but vowed to continue making 'positive changes' in Manchester's communities.
Impact on council composition
Labour lost seats in the May 2024 local elections, with gains by Reform UK and the Greens. However, Labour remains in control of Manchester council with 64 councillors. The Greens have 21 seats, Reform UK seven, and Liberal Democrats four.
A Labour spokesperson welcomed Sarwar, saying: 'We are pleased to welcome Shahbaz to the Labour group. His decision reflects a shared commitment to putting communities first, delivering for the people of Longsight and working together to build a better Manchester.'
