By Charles Chijioke
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – British Prime Minister and Labour Party leader, Keir Starmer, has announced his resignation, ending a turbulent period in office less than two years after leading Labour to a historic election victory.
Afrilensnews reports that Starmer made the announcement on Monday in an emotional address outside 10 Downing Street, saying he had accepted the verdict of his party members regarding his continued leadership.
Retaining his position temporarily, Starmer disclosed that he would remain Prime Minister until the Labour Party elects a new leader.
He said: “That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party. I have spoken to his majesty the king this morning to inform him of my decision.
“I will ask the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party to set out a timetable with nominations opening on the 9th of July and completed by the summer recess. In the case of context, this will ensure a new leader is in place before parliament return in September.
“I will remain in post as Prime Minister until a contest is complete and I will do everything I can to ensure an utterly handover of power.”
Starmer, a former human rights lawyer and ex-Director of Public Prosecutions, came to power after guiding the Labour Party to a landslide victory during the 2024 general election, ending years of Conservative Party rule.
However, his administration increasingly came under pressure following disappointing performances by Labour in local elections across England, Scotland and Wales. Reports indicated that the party lost more than 1,000 council seats, sparking growing discontent within its ranks.
The poor electoral showing reportedly triggered calls from several Labour lawmakers demanding a change in leadership amid fears that the party could continue losing support to the Reform UK movement led by Nigel Farage.
His troubles deepened following cabinet resignations, internal disagreements and criticism from party members who questioned his political direction and ability to lead Labour into another national election.
Reports further suggest that pressure mounted after Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham returned to frontline national politics, with many Labour MPs viewing him as a strong contender to succeed Starmer.
The resignation opens the door to a potentially fierce leadership contest within the governing Labour Party, with Burnham already being tipped among the early favourites.
Political analysts believe Starmer’s departure could reshape British politics in the months ahead, influence government policy direction and test Labour’s unity ahead of future electoral battles.
Source: Sahara Reporters
