Labour Leadership Crisis Looms as Gorton & Denton By-Election Threatens Starmer
The political fate of Sir Keir Starmer could be decisively sealed within a matter of weeks, as intense internal Labour Party conflict escalates dramatically in the run-up to a critical parliamentary by-election. The contest in the Greater Manchester constituency of Gorton & Denton, scheduled for February 26th, has become a flashpoint for leadership challenges and deep-seated party divisions.
Rivals Circle as By-Election Becomes Referendum on Starmer
Senior Labour figures are actively jostling for position, with stark warnings circulating that a defeat for the party could force the Prime Minister out of his role. The by-election is being framed by opponents, including Nigel Farage's Reform UK party, as a direct referendum on Sir Keir's premiership. A victory for either Reform or the Greens in this traditionally Labour-held seat is widely viewed as potentially fatal to Starmer's leadership tenure.
Angela Rayner, the former Deputy Prime Minister, has significantly ramped up her campaign activities. She was prominently featured on the campaign trail yesterday alongside Labour's newly-selected candidate, Angeliki Stogia. Sources indicate Ms Rayner has amassed a formidable 'war chest' estimated at around £1 million, earmarked for a potential bid to succeed Sir Keir should the opportunity arise.
Starmer's Absence and Unpopularity Highlighted
The depth of Sir Keir Starmer's unpopularity within certain party factions is underscored by the belief among some Labour MPs that he will not even make a personal appearance in the Gorton & Denton constituency during the campaign. One Labour MP was quoted stating, 'You won't see him in Gorton. He's toxic, and a Londoner to boot. He gets altitude sickness up there.' This sentiment reflects a significant north-south divide and a perception of detachment.
When questioned during his recent Asian trip, Sir Keir declined to confirm whether he would campaign personally, stating only, 'We will set out our campaign plan when we have got the candidates in place.' This non-committal response has fuelled further speculation about his precarious position.
Rayner's Stealth Operation and Party Divisions
Angela Rayner's leadership preparations have moved into a higher gear. Insiders report that beyond securing financial commitments from donors, she has begun informally promising future Cabinet positions to key supporters as part of a concerted effort to build a power base. An ally described her recent activities as a 'personal charm offensive' aimed at cultivating donor relationships since her resignation from the Cabinet five months ago.
Meanwhile, bitter fallout continues from the party's decision to block Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from standing as the Labour candidate. While Mr Burnham has publicly pledged support for candidate Angeliki Stogia, Liverpool Mayor Steve Rotheram has expressed fury at what he termed 'gutless' anonymous briefings against his close ally. Rotheram criticised a damaging culture of leaks within the party, urging an end to the attacks for the sake of unity.
The Stakes of the By-Election Contest
The by-election was triggered by the resignation of former MP Andrew Gwynne on health grounds. Labour secured the seat decisively in the 2024 general election with over 18,500 votes. However, Reform UK finished a strong second with 5,142 votes, narrowly ahead of the Greens on 4,810, indicating a potentially volatile electorate.
Candidate Angeliki Stogia, a Manchester city councillor, was formally introduced at an event flanked by senior Labour figures including party chair Anna Turley, deputy leader Lucy Powell, and chief whip Jonathan Reynolds. In her address, she focused on local unity, stating, 'This is about Manchester. Manchester is a city united, we are rejecting division.'
Reform UK has selected former academic and GB News presenter Matt Goodwin as its candidate, while the Greens have put forward councillor Hannah Spencer. Green Party leader Zack Polanski framed the contest as having 'just days to stop Reform', highlighting the multi-party battle that could split the vote and determine the outcome.
The coming weeks will prove critical, not just for the representation of Gorton & Denton, but for the very leadership of the Labour Party and the direction of the country's political landscape.
