Political Power Dynamics: A Call for Reform in Whitehall

Published 2 January 2026

Highlights

• Former adviser Paul Ovenden criticizes the British government for losing control to lawyers and activists, impacting its ability to fulfill promises.
• Ovenden highlights the case of Alaa Abd El Fattah as emblematic of Whitehall's distractions, despite his controversial past.
• Experts argue that the government has the power to change the system but lacks the political will to do so.
• The Labour government faces internal challenges and electoral threats, necessitating a strategic reset.
• Ovenden and other experts call for a "stiffened spine" in governance to reclaim political agency.

In a striking critique of the current state of British governance, former adviser Paul Ovenden has called for a significant overhaul of the political strategy employed by the government. Ovenden, who previously served as Keir Starmer's director of political strategy, argues that politicians have ceded too much power to external entities, such as lawyers, activists, and regulators, thereby hindering their ability to deliver on promises. His comments, published in The Times, have sparked a broader debate on the efficacy of Whitehall governance.

The Abd El Fattah Case: A Symbol of Distraction

Ovenden points to the case of British-Egyptian activist Alaa Abd El Fattah as a prime example of Whitehall's misplaced priorities. Abd El Fattah, who was imprisoned in Egypt for over a decade on charges of spreading fake news, became a focal point of British diplomatic efforts. Despite his release and subsequent arrival in the UK, his past controversial social media posts have drawn criticism. Ovenden describes the government's focus on his case as a "running joke," illustrating how political energy is sapped by what he terms the "stakeholder state."

Expert Opinions: Power and Responsibility

While Ovenden's analysis resonates with some in Downing Street, experts argue that the government retains the power to enact change. Alex Thomas from the Institute for Government acknowledges the challenges but emphasizes the need for sustained focus and political agency. Dave Penman, representing senior civil servants, concurs, stating that the current system exists due to ministerial decisions and can be altered with strong political will.

Internal and External Pressures on Labour

The Labour government, under Keir Starmer, faces mounting pressure both internally and externally. Chris Powell, a seasoned Labour strategist, warns of the need for a "fundamental reset" to counter the electoral threat posed by Reform UK. The party's internal dynamics, coupled with upcoming local elections, present a challenging landscape for Starmer's leadership.

What this might mean

Looking ahead, the British government may need to reassess its approach to governance, balancing stakeholder engagement with decisive political action. The call for a "stiffened spine" suggests a potential shift towards more centralized decision-making. However, achieving this will require overcoming entrenched bureaucratic structures and fostering a culture of accountability. As the Labour Party navigates internal challenges and electoral pressures, its ability to adapt and reform could determine its future success. The case of Alaa Abd El Fattah serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in balancing domestic priorities with international advocacy.