Keir Starmer, on Monday, announced his resignation as UK Prime Minister after fewer than two years in office.

Starmer made the announcement in a speech outside 10 Downing Street, saying, “Every decision I have taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party.”

He confirmed that the process to elect a new Labour Party leader would begin in July, while he would remain prime minister until a successor is chosen, expected by September.

Starmer said his decision followed reflection on whether he remained best placed to lead the party into the next general election, adding that he had “heard the answer” and accepted it.

After Starmer’s resignation, attention has now shifted to fivr contenders in the race to become the next UK Prime Minister

Andy Burnham

Andy Burnham is widely regarded as one of the major contenders to become UK Prime Minister. The former Greater Manchester mayor recently returned to Westminster after winning the Makerfield by-election and has indicated a willingness to enter the leadership race.

He enjoys strong backing among Labour members and consistently performs well in internal polling. Supporters argue he can reconnect Labour with working-class voters and strengthen the party’s appeal beyond its traditional base. His experience in both national and local government is also seen as a major advantage.

Wes Streeting

Wes Streeting is regarded as one of the strongest potential challengers from within the party’s parliamentary ranks.

The former health secretary resigned from the cabinet last month and has since suggested Starmer was unlikely to lead Labour into the next general election.

He is seen as a strong communicator with solid backing among Labour MPs, though critics argue his centrist positions could distance parts of the party’s traditional base.

Angela Rayner

Angela Rayner remains one of the most recognisable figures in Labour and a key name in any discussion of leadership. Popular among the party’s soft-left wing, she has repeatedly pushed for faster delivery on policies affecting working people.

She has ruled out challenging Starmer directly but has not excluded entering a leadership contest if one is triggered. Some within the party believe she could emerge as a unifying candidate or form a strategic alliance with Burnham.

Shabana Mahmood

Shabana Mahmood has emerged as a potential contender from Labour’s right flank.

The Home Secretary is seen as experienced on policy matters and has built support among senior party figures, and her supporters highlight her governance record and organisational discipline, while critics question whether she has enough internal momentum to mount a successful leadership bid.

Al Carns

Former minister and military veteran, Al Carns is viewed as an outside contender in the leadership conversation, and has not formally declared an interest but has not ruled out a future bid.

His recent resignation has fuelled speculation about his ambitions, while his military background has attracted attention among some Labour members seeking a fresh direction. (TRIBUNE)

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