Keir Starmer has announced he will stand down as prime minister after months of intense pressure from Labour MPs. Political correspondent Aletha Adu looks back at the highs and lows of Starmer's two-year premiership and what prompted his decision to step away, becoming the UK’s seventh prime minister in 10 years.
Historic election victory and early promise
Starmer entered Downing Street with a landslide election victory, the first Labour PM in over a decade. His early months saw a focus on economic stability and repairing international relations. However, internal party divisions soon emerged.
Growing pressure from Labour MPs
According to sources within the party, dissatisfaction grew over Starmer's handling of key issues, including the cost-of-living crisis and NHS waiting times. A coordinated effort by backbench MPs to force a leadership challenge ultimately led to his resignation.
Legacy and next steps
Starmer's tenure will be remembered for its brevity and the return of political instability. Andy Burnham, the 'man of the people', is now widely tipped to become the next prime minister. The UK faces its seventh PM in a decade, raising questions about long-term governance.
As political analysts note, Starmer's departure underscores the volatility of modern British politics. The Labour Party must now unite behind a new leader to avoid further turmoil.
