British PM Keir Starmer announcing his resignation on Monday (Photo: @MarioNawfal/X)

London, June 22: On Monday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared his resignation from both his role as Prime Minister and as the Leader of the Labour Party, initiating a leadership election expected to conclude before Parliament resumes in September.

The 63-year-old leader stated he would continue in his position until a new Labour leader is chosen, expressing his commitment to facilitating a seamless transition of power.

In a heartfelt speech outside 10 Downing Street, Starmer acknowledged the decision made by his parliamentary party regarding his leadership future.

He remarked, "The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us 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 emphasized, "Every decision I have taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party."

Earlier in the day, he informed King Charles III of his decision and requested the Labour's National Executive Committee to initiate the leadership election process.

The timeline suggests that nominations for the leadership race will commence on July 9, with the aim of concluding the process before Parliament's summer break starting July 17.

If there is a contested election, the party hopes to have a new leader appointed before Parliament reconvenes in September.

Starmer stated, "I will remain in post as Prime Minister until the contest is complete, and I will do everything I can to ensure an orderly handover of power."

He added, "I will also give my successor my full and unequivocal support, knowing that they will inherit a Britain that is far stronger and fairer than the one I inherited two years ago, better prepared for the challenges ahead, and better able to ensure the Labour Party secures a second term in office."

Andy Burnham, who recently returned to the House of Commons after a significant by-election victory, is seen as a leading candidate to take over from Starmer.

This announcement represents a significant shift for the Labour leader, who guided the party to a decisive general election win in July 2024, ending over a decade of Conservative governance.

Despite a strong start, Starmer's popularity waned due to increasing criticism over various controversial policy choices and rising discontent within the party.

Concluding his address with emotion, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to his family, stating, "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, and the best dad I can to my children, who are my pride and my joy."