Daily Voice of People Desk Report :

The stunning victory of the Green Party in the Gorton and Denton by-election has sent shockwaves through British politics. Despite this humiliating defeat, Labour leader Keir Starmer has declared that he will “keep fighting” and has no intention of resigning.

Speaking to reporters, Starmer described the result as “disappointing” and acknowledged the clear frustration among voters. He stressed that although he entered politics later in life, he did so to fight for change, and he intends to continue that fight “for as long as there is breath in my body.” Echoing his campaign rhetoric, he again described both the Greens and Reform UK as representing the “extremes” of left and right politics, respectively.

Meanwhile, at a victory celebration, Green leader Zack Polanski called the result “an existential crisis” for the Labour Party. He said voters are no longer compelled to support the “least-worst” option and are instead choosing hope and a clear, positive plan.

Voices of self-criticism are also emerging within Labour. Former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner described the result as a “wake-up call,” urging colleagues to be braver and to refocus the party agenda on putting people first.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch commented that the outcome demonstrates that Starmer’s premiership is effectively over. Though her party’s candidate came in a distant fourth, she said, “He is in office, but not in power.”

Labour’s left-wing MP Clive Lewis described the defeat as “a punch in the face” and called for a “complete fresh start” for the party. He argued that the leadership has alienated its core base and sidelined its activists, making voter defections unsurprising.

The election has also sparked controversy over the process. Greater Manchester Police confirmed it is reviewing allegations of possible “family voting,” and a formal request for investigation has been submitted to the Electoral Commission.

Post-election remarks have also generated debate over Muslim voters. Shaista Aziz, co-director of the anti-racism group Three Hijabis, criticized the tendency to view Muslim voters with undue suspicion and to attach “sectarian” labels.

With upcoming elections in Scotland and Wales, the result could have far-reaching national implications. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar indicated that tactical voting may be necessary to unseat the ruling Scottish National Party. Meanwhile, in Wales, Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth has framed the next election as a direct contest between his party and Reform UK.

Overall, the Gorton and Denton outcome sends a clear message: British voters are no longer bound by traditional political loyalties. Labour now faces a crucial question—will it take this warning seriously and implement meaningful political and organizational change, or will it continue forward amid growing unease?