UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Resigns
UK Keir Starmer resigns on Monday. Photo: Collected.
Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and as leader of the Labour Party. He made the announcement today (Monday), according to BBC News.
Starmer had been under political pressure for a long time. His position had been teetering for many days. However, the Labour Party leader had occasionally managed to salvage the situation and hold on.
But Starmer's support had been steadily declining. Gradually, he found himself friendless within the government. The pressure became overwhelming. He could not regain his rhythm and relieve that pressure, and was ultimately compelled to step aside.
Until last Friday (June 19), however, Starmer had firmly stated that he would confront any challenge to his leadership.
Starmer has stated that he will continue to serve as Prime Minister until his party, Labour, elects a new leader. He also mentioned that he has spoken with King Charles III today.
In the 2024 election, the centre-left Labour Party, under Keir Starmer's leadership, had won a resounding victory. However, he gradually lost popularity due to a series of scandals and U-turns on various policies.
A perception has taken hold among voters that Starmer has failed to fulfill the promises he made to improve living standards.
According to Reuters news agency, more than 100 Labour Party lawmakers have publicly called for Starmer's resignation. This number represents nearly one-quarter of the party's total representatives in the House of Commons (the British Parliament).
By formally announcing his resignation, Starmer has initiated the race among Labour MPs to become the next Prime Minister.
Starmer said he had discussed the matter with King Charles III and stated that he has asked the Labour Party's National Executive Committee to begin the process of selecting his successor. He has indicated that the nomination process will begin on July 9.
