BREAKING: Keir Starmer steps down as UK prime minister

United Kingdom Prime Minister and Labour Party leader, Keir Starmer, has announced his resignation from both positions, bringing an abrupt end to his leadership barely two years after leading Labour to victory in the 2024 general election.

Starmer made the announcement on Monday in a statement outside 10 Downing Street, saying he had accepted the verdict of his party on whether he remained the best person to lead Labour into the next general election.

“The question my party is asking is whether I am best placed to lead it into the next general election. I have heard the answer of my party to that question and I accept that answer with good grace. Every decision I have taken has been about putting the country I love first. I will resign as leader of the Labour Party,” Starmer said.

Before announcing his resignation, the outgoing prime minister reflected on his tenure, stating that he inherited a Labour Party that was politically, financially and morally weakened. He said his leadership helped rebuild the party’s credibility, including restoring trust on economic management, defence and national security.

Starmer described entering Downing Street after Labour’s election victory in July 2024 as the proudest moment of his life, noting that he entered politics to improve the lives of millions of people.

His departure follows growing pressure from Labour MPs and senior party figures after a series of political setbacks, including the recent Makerfield by-election, which was won convincingly by Andy Burnham.

Burnham, who was due to be sworn in as Member of Parliament for Makerfield on Monday, is widely regarded as the leading contender to succeed Starmer. Reports within Labour suggest party members expect a smooth transition, with some anticipating that Burnham could emerge as leader without a contested election.

Starmer also thanked his wife, Vic, for her support throughout his political career and said he hoped to spend more time with his family. His resignation opens a new chapter for Labour as the party prepares to choose a successor and chart its course ahead of the next general election.

Source: BBC