The Labour Party's internal turmoil descended into what opponents have branded a complete farce yesterday, as Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar declared he would campaign alongside Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for the upcoming Holyrood elections—while simultaneously standing by his demand for the Prime Minister to resign.
Sarwar Doubles Down on Resignation Demand
In a striking display of political contradiction, Mr Sarwar reiterated his call for Sir Keir to step down, a demand he first made at a press conference earlier this week. Speaking to journalists, he stated unequivocally, 'I stated my view, I stand by that view.' This position comes despite his attempted coup appearing to falter, having secured support from only two Scottish MPs so far, and exacerbating deep divisions within the party.
Campaign Trail Commitment Amidst Chaos
However, in a bewildering twist, Mr Sarwar also confirmed he would 'of course' stand beside Sir Keir if the Prime Minister campaigns in Scotland ahead of the May elections. This follows a Downing Street spokesman's confirmation that the Prime Minister 'will campaign in Scotland' and supports Mr Sarwar's bid to become First Minister. When pressed on whether he would appear alongside Sir Keir, Mr Sarwar added, 'If he is here delivering for Scotland, of course.'
Opponents Label Developments 'Farcical'
Political rivals were quick to seize on the apparent disarray. Scottish Tory deputy leader Rachael Hamilton criticised the situation, saying, 'Anas Sarwar is making it up as he goes along. It is farcical that he said with a straight face he'd welcome Keir Starmer alongside him on the campaign trail despite wanting him gone as Prime Minister.' First Minister John Swinney echoed this sentiment, stating it was 'crystal clear' that Labour is now in 'abject chaos' and 'clearly falling apart.'
Mixed Messages and Internal Support
The confusion deepens as Sir Keir attempted to move past the resignation demand, insisting he remains '100 per cent supportive of Anas Sarwar to be the First Minister.' Meanwhile, Mr Sarwar reasserted that his call for resignation was 'my decision alone,' despite reports he consulted several cabinet ministers beforehand. He justified his stance by saying, 'I took the decision based upon what I am willing to tolerate... recognising that my first loyalty and my first priority is to my country, Scotland.'
In a minor boost for Mr Sarwar, former First Minister Lord Jack McConnell backed his move, praising it as a sign that he is 'his own man.' Yet, with the party embroiled in such public discord, the Labour leadership faces mounting pressure to present a united front as the Holyrood elections approach.
