In a significant upheaval within the Labour Party, twenty councillors have chosen to resign and operate independently, impacting Pendle Borough Council, Nelson Town Council, and Brierfield Town Council. This mass departure stands as the largest exodus during Keir Starmer’s leadership tenure.
Councillor Mohammed Iqbal, in articulating his decision to resign, criticized what he perceives as a culture within the National Labour Party that stifles councilors’ autonomy. He condemned efforts to dictate candidate selection and decision-making processes, asserting that such control undermines democratic principles. Stressing the paramount importance of free speech and addressing bullying within the party, Councillor Iqbal underscored the need for a more open and inclusive environment.
Pendle Borough leader Asjad Mahmood echoed these sentiments, citing attempts by senior party officials to impose their agenda at the local level. He affirmed his commitment to serving the public’s interests rather than adhering to directives from party officials.
Criticism of Keir Starmer’s leadership style has intensified, with the Momentum group labeling it authoritarian and anti-democratic. They argue that such leadership has contributed to losses in Labour councils, councilors, and members.
This wave of resignations occurs amid broader discontent within the party, particularly concerning Starmer’s handling of Gaza-related issues. Over 70 Labour councillors previously resigned over similar concerns.
Recent events in Gaza have further fueled demands for action, with a majority of voters supporting an immediate suspension of arms sales to Israel. The Campaign for Labour Party Democracy has proposed a motion calling for the suspension of weapons provision to Israel, citing international law obligations and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This motion reflects mounting pressure on the Labour Party frontbench to challenge the Tory government’s arms exports to Israel.
Cross-party support for the motion underscores the urgency of addressing the escalating conflict and humanitarian toll, including Palestinian casualties and potential breaches of international conventions. The call for suspending arms sales aligns with public sentiment and legal considerations, signaling a growing demand for accountability and humanitarian action within the UK political landscape.