Labour Loses Majority in Oldham Council Amid Cost-of-Living Crisis and Gaza Conflict Backlash

Labour has lost its control on Oldham council following the recent local elections, ending its stronghold on the council since 2011. Council leader Arooj Shah's party suffered a net loss of five seats, winning two but losing seven. This marks the third consecutive year that the leader of Oldham council has been ousted.

Why this matters: The outcome of the Oldham council election has significant implications for Labour's national strategy, as it highlights the party's vulnerability to local issues and voter discontent. This defeat may prompt Labour to reassess its approach to addressing the cost-of-living crisis and its stance on divisive international issues.

The cost-of-living crisis and Labour's stance on the Gaza conflict are seen as significant factors in the party's defeat. Independent candidates campaigning on the Gaza issue won in several wards, including Wernerth, Coldhurst, St Mary's, Waterhead, Alexandra, and Royton South. The Failsworth Independents also gained a seat from Labour in Failsworth West.

The losses have left the council in no overall, forcing Labour to work with smaller political groups and independents to maintain power. Labour will need a majority to elect a leader and pass the budget, or risk being ousted by opposition parties. A Labour source previously stated, "a coalition of opposition parties to oust Labour seems unlikely because the groups involved hold diverse views."

Despite the setback in Oldham, Labour gained control of Adur District Council from the Conservatives in Blackpool. In other local election results, Labour gained seats in Failsworth East and Hollinwood, while the Liberal Democrats lost Shaw to an independent candidate.

The defeat in Oldham highlights the challenges Labour faces in the current political climate, with the cost-of-living crisis and divisive issues like the Gaza conflict swaying voters. As Arooj Shah potentially faces a leadership challenge, the future of Labour's control in Oldham remains uncertain.

The Oldham local elections have revealed the vulnerabilities of Labour's stronghold and the rising influence of independent candidates who focus on local issues and voter discontent. Labour must now analyze the factors that led to their defeat and develop strategies to regain the trust and support of the electorate in Oldham.

Key Takeaways

• Labour loses control of Oldham council after 12 years.
• Cost-of-living crisis and Gaza conflict stance contributed to defeat.
• Independent candidates won several wards, focusing on local issues.
• Labour must form coalition or risk being ousted by opposition parties.
• Defeat highlights Labour's vulnerability to local issues and voter discontent.