In a dramatic political shift, Labour councillor Michael Graham has resigned from the party, declaring Sir Keir Starmer “the worst prime minister of my lifetime.” Serving on Wakefield Council, Graham's resignation follows a wave of discontent among Labour representatives, who cite Starmer's leadership style and policy decisions as the root of their frustrations.

In a statement accompanying his resignation, Graham attributed his decision to a series of contentious policies enacted under Starmer’s leadership. He specifically criticised changes to winter fuel payments for pensioners and a perceived lack of action on grooming gangs, asserting that Starmer has not prioritised the needs of the populace. "I’ve watched as Keir Starmer cosplays as a patriot while failing to put the people of this country first," Graham stated, articulating his concerns regarding the party’s direction. He perceived a significant divergence from the party's foundational values, noting that it has “lost its way” and abandoned those who once found a voice within its ranks.

Graham's departure is not an isolated incident; it is part of a broader trend within the Labour Party, where over 20 councillors have resigned, predominantly from Broxtowe Borough Council in Nottinghamshire. Many of these councillors echo Graham's sentiments, voicing their dissatisfaction with policies like the reduction of winter fuel allowances and the retention of the two-child benefit cap. Additionally, there are significant concerns regarding the party's handling of the Israel-Palestine conflict, which has further amplified divisions among party members, as internal dissent grows over Starmer's refusal to advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza.

The discontent culminates in whispers of a potential parliamentary exodus, with notable figures signalling their intention not to stand for re-election. Among those are veteran MPs like Margaret Hodge and Harriet Harman, indicating a possible reshuffle in safe seats, bringing further uncertainty to Labour’s future prospects. This mass resignation raises questions not only about Starmer’s grip on leadership but also about the party’s cohesion as it prepares for upcoming elections.

Amidst this turmoil, Starmer did receive welcome news with the return of former MP Mike Gapes, who had left Labour four years earlier over allegations of antisemitism. Gapes heralded changes within the party under Starmer’s leadership, highlighting efforts to address grievances from both within and outside the party. Nevertheless, this isolated positive note does little to assuage the growing tide of discontent and the petition circulating for Starmer's resignation, which has garnered over 22,000 signatures, drawing attention to his controversial comments and policies.

As the political landscape shifts, Starmer’s leadership is becoming increasingly scrutinised, positioning the Labour Party at a crucial juncture that could define its trajectory in the lead-up to the next general elections. With internal fractures and public dissatisfaction simmering, the path ahead for Labour appears fraught with challenges, as hopes for a united front grow dimmer.

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Source: Noah Wire Services