Photo credit: Keir Starmer

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Monday that he will step down as leader of the Labour Party, ending a turbulent premiership less than two years after leading Labour to a landslide election victory in 2024.

Speaking outside 10 Downing Street, Starmer said he had accepted the verdict of his parliamentary party on whether he remained the right person to lead Labour into the next general election.

"I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question. And I accept that answer with good grace," Starmer said.

The prime minister said he had informed King Charles III of his decision and would ask Labour's National Executive Committee to begin the process of choosing a new leader. A successor is expected to be in place before Parliament returns in September, while Starmer will remain in office to oversee an orderly transition.

Starmer's resignation comes nearly two years after Labour returned to power for the first time in 14 years, ending a long period of Conservative rule. Reflecting on his tenure, he recalled taking over a party that he described as "politically, financially and morally bankrupt."

"Six years ago I inherited a Labour party that was politically, financially and morally bankrupt," he said.

Starmer credited his leadership team with tackling antisemitism within Labour, rebuilding trust on economic and national security issues and returning the party to government despite doubts about its electoral prospects.

He also pointed to what he described as achievements of his administration, including stronger economic growth, wages rising faster than inflation, shorter National Health Service waiting lists, expanded workers' rights and increased defense spending. He further said his government had reduced irregular Channel crossings, strengthened online protections for children and helped lift half a million children out of poverty.

"Change promised by a Labour government. Change fought for by a Labour government. Change delivered by a Labour government," he said.

The 63-year-old leader pledged his support to his successor and said they would inherit a country that is "far stronger and fairer" than the one he entered.

Toward the end of his speech, an emotional Starmer thanked colleagues, civil servants and his family for standing by him.

"When I leave the biggest job in the country, I shall spend more time on the most important job, being the best husband I can to my fantastic wife, Vic, who has been a rock by my side through good times and bad, and being the best dad I can to my beautiful children who are my pride and my joy."

Starmer's departure follows months of growing unrest within Labour, fueled by disappointing election results and declining popularity. Reports indicated that many party members had become increasingly concerned about his ability to secure a second term.

Among those seeking to succeed him is Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who has emerged as one of the frontrunners in the leadership race.

Starmer led Labour to one of its biggest victories in modern British history in July 2024, bringing an end to 14 years of Conservative government. But policy reversals, internal divisions and poor election performances gradually eroded support within his own party, ultimately leading to his decision to step aside.

For now, Starmer will remain in Downing Street until Labour members choose a new leader.