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Monday 23/02/2026

Keir Starmer Faces Leadership Crisis Amid Calls for Resignation

Keir Starmer standing with supporters amid political turmoil
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Anas Sarwar, Scottish Labour leader, called for Prime Minister Keir Starmer's resignation, sparking political turmoil.
  • Despite Sarwar's call, Starmer received backing from key figures, including Wes Streeting and Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan.
  • Allegations of a coup attempt by Wes Streeting were denied, with sources claiming Sarwar acted independently.
  • Starmer affirmed his commitment to leading Labour, emphasizing the need for party unity and change.
  • The Peter Mandelson scandal remains a point of contention, with calls for addressing ignored female voices.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has weathered a significant political storm following a dramatic call for his resignation by Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar. The unexpected move on Monday sent shockwaves through the Labour Party, raising questions about Starmer's leadership and the party's future direction.

Sarwar's Bold Move

Anas Sarwar's call for Starmer to step down was not part of a coordinated effort, according to sources close to the Scottish Labour leader. Sarwar, who has been reflecting on the decision for weeks, acted independently, believing it was in Labour's best interest in Scotland. His intervention, however, has been met with mixed reactions within the party, with some viewing it as a high-risk strategy that failed to gain traction.

Rallying Support for Starmer

In the wake of Sarwar's announcement, Starmer received crucial support from key figures, including Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan. Streeting, who was initially suspected of orchestrating a leadership coup, denied any such intentions, affirming his support for Starmer. Morgan, while backing Starmer, expressed concerns over the Peter Mandelson scandal, highlighting the need to address ignored female voices.

Starmer's Commitment to Change

Despite the internal strife, Starmer remains resolute in his leadership. He emphasized the importance of party unity and the need for change, stating, "Labour must fight for those who do not get the respect and dignity they deserve." Starmer's determination to lead the party into the next election was echoed by his deputy, David Lammy, who highlighted Starmer's "massive mandate."

The Mandelson Controversy

The ongoing controversy surrounding Peter Mandelson has added another layer of complexity to the situation. Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan described the scandal as "deeply troubling," calling for an honest confrontation of the issues at hand. The scandal has underscored the need for greater accountability and transparency within the party.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The immediate future of Keir Starmer's leadership hinges on his ability to maintain party unity and address internal challenges. While he has successfully navigated the recent crisis, the upcoming local elections could serve as a critical test of his leadership. Should Labour perform poorly, calls for change may intensify, potentially reigniting leadership debates.

The Peter Mandelson scandal remains a contentious issue that could impact Starmer's credibility. Addressing the concerns raised by female voices and ensuring accountability will be crucial for restoring trust within the party and among the public.

As the political landscape evolves, Starmer's leadership will be scrutinized for its ability to adapt and respond to both internal and external pressures. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether he can solidify his position and lead Labour towards a more stable and unified future.