In a significant development for Birmingham's political landscape, two prominent senior members of the city council's Labour group have announced their withdrawal from the upcoming local elections, citing personal circumstances. The decisions come just weeks before candidate lists are finalised for the May 2026 all-out elections, where Labour is widely anticipated to lose its majority on the 101-seat local authority.
Councillors Step Down Ahead of Crucial Election Period
Councillor Jamie Tennant, who currently serves as cabinet member for social justice, community safety and equalities representing the Weoley and Selly Oak ward, has confirmed he will not be standing for re-election. In a statement, he explained his decision to temporarily leave local politics stems from a desire to achieve a better work-life balance and spend more time with his partner, Nathan.
Separately, Cllr Tennant has also departed from his position as an advisor to Tamworth MP Sarah Edwards, confirming he voluntarily 'parted ways' from the role. His promotion to the cabinet occurred just last year under the leadership of council leader John Cotton.
Experienced Councillor Also Withdraws
Joining Cllr Tennant in stepping down is Jayne Francis, the long-serving councillor for Harborne ward. First elected in 2016, Cllr Francis has been an influential figure in several cabinet teams, particularly excelling in roles that promoted Birmingham's arts and cultural sectors. Her departure represents another loss of experience from the Labour benches.
In a brief statement, the Labour party acknowledged both candidates' decisions to stand down in May and confirmed they would continue representing their constituencies until that time. The party indicated that new Labour candidates would be sought to contest the seats in the interim period.
Challenging Times for Birmingham Labour Group
The twin withdrawals occur during a particularly difficult period for the Labour group, which has seen its majority reduced to just five seats, assuming opposition parties vote collectively. Currently, there are 52 Labour members facing 47 opposition councillors, creating a precarious political balance.
This situation follows several setbacks for the group, including the premature deaths of Lozells councillor Waseem Zaffar earlier this month and Moseley councillor Kerry Jenkins last year, which further diminished their numbers. The group had already been weakened by a series of defections prior to these tragic losses.
Recent Political Instability
The political fragility was further highlighted last week when one of the party's leading figures, Councillor Majid Mahmood, narrowly survived a vote of no confidence only due to absences on the opposition benches. This incident underscores the tense atmosphere within the council chamber as crucial decisions, including an important budget vote, approach.
Both departing councillors will remain voting members of the Labour group until May, providing some continuity during this transitional period. However, their decisions to rescind their candidacies create additional challenges for a party already facing predictions of losing its majority in the forthcoming elections.
The timing of these announcements, so close to the candidate nomination deadline, adds pressure to Labour's local organisation as they seek suitable replacements while managing existing council responsibilities. The developments mark another chapter in Birmingham's evolving political story as the city approaches significant electoral contests.
