Labour Announces Candidate for Crucial By-Election Following Burnham Controversy
The Labour Party has officially unveiled its candidate for the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election, selecting Angeliki Stogia to stand for the party. This announcement comes in the wake of a significant internal dispute, after Labour's governing body decisively blocked Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from making a Westminster comeback.
Internal Party Row Erupts Over Candidate Selection
The decision to prevent Mr Burnham from standing was made by Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC) last weekend, sparking a notable internal party row. A core panel, which included Labour leader Keir Starmer, voted overwhelmingly 8-1 against allowing the Mayor to quit his post and contest the by-election. Only Deputy Leader Lucy Powell showed her support for Mr Burnham's candidacy.
In a fiery response, Mr Burnham accused the party of poor conduct, stating, "The fact that the media was informed of the NEC decision before I was tells you everything you need to know about the way the Labour Party is being run these days. You would think that over 30 years of service would count for something but sadly not." Labour cited the potential cost to taxpayers of triggering an unexpected mayoral election to replace him as a key reason for the block.
Stogia to Face Reform UK and Green Challengers
Angeliki Stogia will now contest the by-election, scheduled for February 26, following the resignation of suspended Labour MP Andrew Gwynne. She will face competition from Reform UK's candidate Matt Goodwin and Green councillor Hannah Spencer, a 34-year-old plumber. The by-election is set to be a closely watched contest, given the area's political history.
In the 2024 general election, Labour secured the seat with a commanding majority, receiving 18,555 votes—more than half the total. Reform UK came in second with 5,142 votes, narrowly edging out the Greens who garnered 4,810 votes. This historical context adds weight to the upcoming electoral battle.
Local Opposition and Wider Political Implications
The candidate selection process has not been without controversy beyond Labour's internal strife. Earlier this week, local residents voiced their opposition during a visit by Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who was campaigning with candidate Matt Goodwin. Mr Goodwin had previously sparked a racism row by claiming that people born in the UK are not necessarily British, and he declined to disown those comments this week, further intensifying the political atmosphere.
This by-election represents a critical test for Labour's strategy and unity under Keir Starmer's leadership. The party's handling of the Burnham situation and the subsequent candidate announcement will be scrutinised as voters prepare to head to the polls in late February. The outcome could have significant implications for Labour's standing in Greater Manchester and its broader electoral prospects.
