UPDATE: In a fiery response to anonymous attacks, Liverpool Mayor Steve Rotheram has condemned senior Labour figures for their “gutless” briefings against Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham. This dramatic escalation comes as the Labour Party faces internal strife over Burnham’s exclusion from the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election on February 26, 2026.
Rotheram expressed his frustration in a post on X, stating, “Enough already.” He emphasized the need for party unity and transparency, criticizing those who hide behind anonymity. “These gutless people hide behind the cloak of anonymity,” Rotheram wrote. He asserted that these attacks serve no purpose but to aid their political opponents.
The backdrop of this conflict is the Labour Party’s controversial decision to prevent Burnham from running, with party leader Keir Starmer citing concerns that allowing Burnham to contest could spark a costly by-election for the Manchester mayoralty, potentially costing millions of pounds. Burnham has openly expressed his disappointment, claiming he has never received adequate support from the party during his tenure in three mayoral elections.
In a sharp rebuttal, an unnamed cabinet minister remarked to The Times, “He’s been handed everything on a plate for his whole career. He’s now angry because people won’t make way for his second coming. It’s typical Andy.” This comment underscores the divisions within the party as it grapples with leadership dynamics and electoral strategies.
Rotheram’s remarks reignited tensions as he referenced the Hillsborough disaster, stating, “If they want to know about the bravery it took to break ranks in cabinet to get an independent panel to investigate the unlawful killing of 97 British citizens – bring it on.” His comments aim to highlight the achievements and sacrifices made by Burnham and himself in the face of adversity.
The Labour Party confirmed that Angeliki Stogia, a Manchester councillor, will be the candidate in the Gorton and Denton by-election. Burnham publicly congratulated her, promising support: “Big congrats Angeliki! I know you will do a great job. I will be there for you whenever you need me.”
As this situation develops, all eyes are on the Labour leadership and its handling of internal dissent. The party faces a critical moment as it prepares for upcoming elections, and how it reconciles these divisions could significantly impact its future.
What’s next? Watch for further reactions from both leadership and grassroots members, as this ongoing saga reveals the fissures within the Labour Party. The stakes are high, and the implications for Burnham and his allies could reshape the party landscape in the coming weeks.
