In recent months, Labour has maintained a significant lead in the polls, but close allies of Keir Starmer are concerned about the potential for complacency among MPs, advisers, and activists.
The party faced a tumultuous week, from abandoning one byelection to winning previously safe Tory seats in two others, which only heightened these concerns.
The first cause for alarm was when the party’s Rochdale byelection candidate, Azhar Ali, made controversial comments about Israel and the media. Initially, the party stood by him, but after further revelations, they decided to withdraw their support.
View image in fullscreenLabour has withdrawn support for Azhar Ali in the Rochdale byelection over his anti-Israel comments on Gaza. Photograph: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images
This incident served as a reminder of the vigilance needed to prevent complacency within the party, especially for a leader who has made weeding out antisemitism a central goal.
There was also frustration within the leader’s office over comments from Ed Balls defending another candidate suspended for similar comments. This led to concerns about the party’s focus on voters and the need for permanent change.
The second moment of concern for complacency hunters came when Labour won two previously safe Tory seats in the Wellingborough and Kingswood byelections. This triumph was seen as a cue to reprimand those celebrating too early.
The fear of complacency within Labour remains a central concern for the party’s future, as they continue to navigate the challenges of maintaining their lead in the polls.
2024-02-18 01:00:38
Post from www.theguardian.com
