London: As Keir Starmer announced his resignation as UK prime minister, Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester popularly known as the “King of the North,” has emerged as the leading contender to replace him.
Reports indicate that Burnham’s recent victory in the Makerfield by-election has significantly strengthened his position within the party and intensified calls for a leadership change.
Burnham, a former cabinet minister and two-time Labour leadership candidate, returned to Westminster after nearly a decade away from Parliament when he secured a decisive win in the by-election. The victory has fuelled expectations that he could soon mount a successful challenge for the party leadership.
According to reports, as many as 200 Labour MPs could be prepared to back Burnham in a potential leadership bid, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with Starmer’s leadership among party lawmakers.
Starmer’s troubles have been building for months. A series of controversies, internal rebellions and policy U-turns have weakened his authority and damaged Labour’s standing with voters. Poor performances in local elections further intensified concerns within the party about its prospects under his leadership.
His outspoken advocacy for devolved powers and investment in northern communities earned him the nickname “King of the North” and has made him an attractive alternative for Labour MPs seeking a fresh start, according to reports. He has earned the moniker “King of the North”, with reference to the popular Jon Snow character in “Game of Thrones”, reported HT.
