Andy Burnham elected Leader of the British Labour Party and to assume the Premiership officially on Monday

The ruling Labour Party in Britain has unanimously endorsed the election of veteran politician Andy Burnham as its new leader, paving the way for him to assume the premiership.

Foreign Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced at a special party conference that “in the absence of any other eligible candidate, it is my honor to declare that the duly elected new leader of the Labour Party is Andy Burnham.”

British media reports indicate that Burnham, the former Mayor of Greater Manchester, is expected to be appointed Prime Minister next Monday, following the formal resignation of Keir Starmer.

In a speech delivered at a special party conference in central London, Burnham, the Labour MP for the Manchester Central constituency, said that “the Labour Party will dedicate its strength and unity to serving the people who have waited long for politics to restore hope.” He also praised outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer, “who has laid the foundation for building a better future for the country.”

Burnham emphasized the party’s commitment to finding “common ground” with opposition parties, placing the future of the United Kingdom as its top priority.

The new Prime Minister did not disclose his cabinet lineup but assured that it “will reflect all voices from across the spectrum of the Labour Party.” He pledged to expand his governing philosophy, known as “Manchesterism,” which focuses on decentralizing power to local authorities, opposing centralization, and emphasizing business-friendly, region-based policies to boost the economy and other sectors, including housing, social care, and transport.

It remains unclear who will join Burnham’s government. Names such as current Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood have been floated for the position of Chancellor of the Exchequer, but there is no confirmed information regarding the cabinet formation yet.

On the international front, Burnham has faced criticism for his perceived lack of experience in regional and global issues, despite expressing views on relations between the United Kingdom and the European Union, as well as the Middle East, particularly following a recent video in which he shifted his stance on the situation in the Gaza Strip.