Andy Burnham’s aspiration to lead the Labour Party has been no secret. Referred to as the “King of the North,” Burnham has previously contested leadership in 2010 and 2015. However, he recently stated, “I don’t know what the future will hold.”
Speculation has been rife since last summer that the Greater Manchester Mayor is eyeing a return to Westminster. Burnham hinted at MPs encouraging him to challenge the Prime Minister, causing a stir at the Labour conference and upsetting Downing Street.
Despite the buzz, a key obstacle for Burnham’s ambitions is his non-MP status. There were talks of a plan for him to take over Andrew Gwynne’s constituency, Gorton and Denton. Gwynne, however, dismissed this idea, asserting that his seat was not the path to Number 10.
Recently, Gwynne, who was suspended due to offensive messages, announced his resignation, triggering a by-election. This move now puts Burnham at a crossroads, contemplating a return to Parliament at the expense of giving up his mayoral position.
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of Labour will select a candidate for the Greater Manchester by-election, potentially hindering Burnham’s candidacy due to Starmer loyalists within the NEC.
If Burnham overcomes this challenge, winning the by-election amidst Labour’s declining popularity poses another hurdle. Opposition parties are gearing up for a fierce battle, with Reform UK and the Green Party expressing their intent to contest the seat vigorously.
The decision to contest the by-election now rests with Burnham, who may face competition from various quarters, including the charismatic Green Party leader Zack Polanski. The road ahead is uncertain, but Burnham must soon make a pivotal choice.
