UPDATE: Labour Mayor Steve Rotheram has fiercely condemned anonymous briefings against fellow party leader Andy Burnham, calling them “gutless.” This urgent rebuke comes amid escalating tensions within the Labour Party over the decision to block Burnham’s candidacy in the Gorton and Denton by-election scheduled for February 26, 2026.
In a powerful statement posted on X, Rotheram expressed his frustration with senior party figures who have chosen to attack Burnham from behind a veil of anonymity. “Enough already,” he declared, emphasizing the detrimental impact of such anonymous attacks on party unity. Rotheram stated, “These gutless people hide behind the cloak of anonymity—just like the keyboard warriors they rail against.” He further challenged his critics to openly discuss their grievances on the record.
The backdrop to this conflict is Labour’s internal struggle regarding Burnham’s ambitions. Party leader Keir Starmer explained that allowing Burnham to run could have triggered a costly by-election for the Manchester mayoralty, potentially costing the party and taxpayers millions. Burnham himself has expressed disappointment, alleging that Labour has never supported him during his three successful mayoral campaigns.
Rotheram did not hold back, referencing the Hillsborough disaster to highlight the bravery required to lead significant political change. “If they want to know what the use of political power is,” he said, “then we can compare which campaigns they have assisted with compared to Andy.” This bold statement underscores the stakes involved in the party’s civil war.
Meanwhile, Labour has officially selected Manchester councillor Angeliki Stogia as its candidate for the Gorton and Denton by-election. Burnham congratulated Stogia on X, affirming, “I know you will do a great job. I will be there for you whenever you need me.”
As tensions rise within the party, the upcoming by-election is set to become a focal point for Labour’s internal conflicts. Observers are keenly watching for further developments as party leaders grapple with the implications of this ongoing feud.
This urgent situation not only affects the future of Andy Burnham but could also have lasting impacts on the Labour Party’s broader strategy and unity. The stakes are high, and with the by-election looming, all eyes are on how these internal dynamics will unfold in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
