British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced that he will step down as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party, following mounting pressure from within his party over recent political setbacks and declining public support.
Speaking outside 10 Downing Street on Monday, Starmer confirmed his decision after days of speculation about his political future. The announcement comes less than two years after Labour secured a landslide victory in the 2024 General Election.
Reports indicate that growing support within Labour for former Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, coupled with concerns over the government’s performance, intensified calls for a leadership change.
Starmer said he was proud of his achievements in government and his efforts to rebuild the Labour Party, but acknowledged that it was time to begin a transition of leadership.
The Labour Party is now expected to begin the process of selecting a new leader, with Burnham among the frontrunners to succeed Starmer.
Starmer became Prime Minister in July 2024 after leading Labour to its first election victory in 14 years. (Newswire)