UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced his resignation on Monday, June 22, 2026, in a statement to the media outside 10 Downing Street in London. He said he will step down as leader of the UK Labour Party but will remain prime minister until a successor is chosen. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
Starmer's resignation comes two years after his victory in the 2024 general election. His decision is likely due to internal party pressure and declining approval ratings. In his brief announcement, Starmer did not provide details.
On the same day, Andy Burnham was sworn in as an MP in the House of Commons. Burnham, former mayor of Manchester, is considered a potential successor to Starmer. An Associated Press photo shows Burnham taking the oath.
Starmer's resignation is a surprising turn in UK politics. He was elected Labour leader in 2020 and became prime minister in 2024. During his tenure, the party implemented several reforms, but economic challenges and internal divisions damaged his standing.
Following Starmer's resignation, the Labour Party will begin the process of electing a new leader. Experts say this process could take several weeks. Starmer will continue as prime minister in the interim.