Local Leaders Vie for Labour Candidacy to Succeed Diane Abbott

Keir Starmer’s Statement on Diane Abbott’s Candidacy

Keir Starmer has stated that no decision has been made to bar Diane Abbott from being a Labour candidate at the upcoming general election. However, there are indications that several local figures are being considered to succeed her as the MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington.

Background on Diane Abbott

In April 2023, Abbott had the Labour whip withdrawn after making controversial comments regarding racism. She later retracted her statements and issued an apology. Recently, it was confirmed that the whip had been restored to Abbott.

Speculations and Accusations

Despite the whip restoration, there have been accusations that the party leadership is attempting to prevent Abbott from seeking re-election in her London constituency. Reports suggested that Abbott might not be allowed to stand for Labour at the upcoming election, but Starmer clarified that the decision ultimately lies with the national executive committee.

Potential Successors

While Abbott’s intentions regarding candidacy remain unclear, sources suggest that she was considering retirement. In the event she steps down, several Labour figures from the local area in Hackney are being considered as potential replacements. The NEC will convene to endorse candidates, with a legal deadline of Friday, 7 June.

• Anntoinette Bramble, a Hackney councillor and deputy mayor, is seen as a frontrunner.
• Sem Moema, a recently re-elected London Assembly member, is also a strong contender.
• Mete Coban, founder of My Life My Say, is being discussed as a potential successor.
• Susan Fajana-Thomas, a Stoke Newington ward council colleague, is also in the mix.

Expected Candidate Profile

The candidate to replace Abbott is likely to be from one of the ethnic minority groups well-represented in the constituency, given Abbott’s historic significance as the first Black woman MP in 1987.