The situation regarding Diane Abbott’s candidacy for Labour has been a topic of considerable discussion and speculation. During a campaign event in Worcester, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer stated that it is “not true” that Ms Abbott has been barred from standing as a candidate. He clarified that no decision has been made to bar her, indicating that the matter is still under consideration and will be formally addressed when Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meets next week.
This statement leaves some ambiguity about whether this is a mere technicality, as the formal decision process has yet to conclude, or if it represents a potential change in the party’s stance on Abbott’s candidacy. The NEC’s endorsement of candidates is a crucial step, especially since the deadline for Labour branches to propose their candidates has already passed.
Diane Abbott has voiced concerns on social media, suggesting that there is a broader effort within the party to marginalize left-wing candidates. She cited the case of Faiza Shaheen, who was not endorsed by Labour to run for the Chingford and Woodford Green seat. Shaheen’s disqualification was reportedly due to her engagement with a social media post that allegedly downplayed antisemitism accusations.
This development highlights ongoing tensions within Labour regarding candidate selections and the ideological direction of the party. The upcoming NEC meeting will be pivotal in determining the final slate of candidates ahead of the 7 June nomination closure.
Speaking in east London, Ms Abbott, a close ally of former leader Jeremy Corbyn, expressed her determination to remain as an MP for as long as possible. She accused Labour of wanting to “exclude” her from Parliament. At a rally on Wednesday, she told supporters she had been “banned from running” for Labour, despite Sir Keir Starmer’s assurance that no decision had been taken to bar her. Abbott emphasized her desire to stand “by any means possible.”