Twenty councilors have made a significant move by resigning from the Labour Party and choosing to remain independent. This decision, which affects Pendle Borough Council, Nelson Town Council, and Brierfield Town Council, marks the largest departure during Keir Starmer’s leadership.
Councillor Mohammed Iqbal expressed his reasons for resigning, highlighting a perceived culture within the National Labour Party that seeks to control what councilors can say and do.
He criticized attempts to dictate candidate selection and decision-making processes, stating that such control is not conducive to democratic principles. Councillor Iqbal emphasized the importance of free speech and the need to address bullying within the party.
Labour Councillors (Credits: The Telegraph)
Pendle Borough leader Asjad Mahmood echoed these sentiments, citing attempts by senior party officials to impose their ideas at the local level. He reaffirmed his commitment to serving the public rather than adhering to directives from party officials.
The Momentum group criticized Keir Starmer’s leadership style, describing it as authoritarian and anti-democratic. They pointed out that the approach taken by the leadership has led to losses in Labour councils, councilors, and members.
This trend of resignations comes amid broader discontent within the party. Over 70 Labour councilors previously left due to concerns over Starmer’s handling of Gaza-related issues.
Recent events in Gaza have further intensified calls for action. A substantial majority of voters support an immediate suspension of arms sales to Israel, with over 70 Labour councilors resigning due to Starmer’s perceived failings in this regard.
Labour Councillors (Credits: The Times)
The Campaign for Labour Party Democracy has put forward a motion calling for the suspension of weapons provision to Israel, citing international law obligations and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This motion reflects growing pressure on the Labour Party frontbench to demand a suspension of arms exports to Israel from the Tory government.
It emphasizes the need to address the escalating conflict and the humanitarian toll, including the loss of Palestinian lives and the concerns raised by legal experts regarding breaches of international conventions.
MPs from across the political spectrum support the motion, underscoring the urgent need for decisive action to address the situation in Gaza. The call for suspension of arms sales aligns with broader public sentiment and legal considerations, signaling a growing demand for accountability and humanitarian action within the UK political landscape.
