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Sunday 22/02/2026

Scottish Labour's Anas Sarwar Sparks Controversy with Call for Starmer's Resignation

Anas Sarwar demands Keir Starmer's resignation at press conference
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Anas Sarwar, Scottish Labour leader, called for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to resign, sparking political controversy.
  • Sarwar later stated Starmer could campaign in Scotland if he demonstrated benefits for Scottish voters.
  • The move is seen as a high-risk strategy, with limited support from Labour MPs and UK ministers.
  • Sarwar's leadership and Labour's performance in the upcoming Holyrood elections could impact Starmer's position.
  • The political dynamics in Scotland are crucial as the elections approach, with Sarwar aiming to redirect voter frustration.

In a dramatic turn of events, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has stirred the political landscape by calling for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to resign. This bold move comes just three months before the Holyrood elections, where Sarwar is vying to become the first minister. The call for resignation was unexpected and has left many in the political sphere questioning its implications.

A High-Stakes Political Gamble

Sarwar's call for Starmer to step down was likened to a "Hail Mary" pass, a last-ditch effort to shake up the political status quo. The announcement, made during a hastily arranged press conference, was met with a coordinated show of support for Starmer from his cabinet, contrasting with the muted response from Sarwar's Scottish Labour colleagues. This move appears to be an attempt to distance Scottish Labour from the unpopular UK government, redirecting voter dissatisfaction towards the Scottish National Party (SNP).

A Shift in Strategy

Despite the initial uproar, Sarwar has since clarified that Starmer and other UK ministers are welcome to campaign in Scotland, provided they demonstrate tangible benefits for Scottish citizens. "The prime minister, and other ministers, if they want to come to Scotland and demonstrate that they’re delivering for Scotland by being a UK Labour government, that’s welcome," Sarwar stated. This shift suggests a strategic recalibration aimed at bolstering Labour's chances in the upcoming elections.

Implications for Labour Leadership

Sarwar's actions have been described by some within the party as "incredibly high risk and pretty foolish," with fears that it could further complicate Labour's electoral prospects. The outcome of the Holyrood elections on May 7 is seen as pivotal for Starmer's leadership, with Sarwar's performance potentially influencing his political future. As the elections draw near, the dynamics within Scottish Labour and its relationship with the UK leadership remain under intense scrutiny.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The political landscape in Scotland is poised for significant shifts as the Holyrood elections approach. If Sarwar's gamble pays off and he secures a strong performance, it could bolster his leadership and potentially stabilize Starmer's position as Labour leader. Conversely, a poor showing could exacerbate tensions within the party and lead to further calls for leadership changes. Political analysts will be closely watching how Sarwar navigates this high-stakes situation and whether his strategy to distance Scottish Labour from the UK government resonates with voters.