It has been over a month since Birmingham Labour suffered a devastating defeat in the local elections, losing control of the city council after 14 years. The group's leader, John Cotton, lost his seat, and their number of councillors plummeted from 65 in 2022 to just 17. This collapse occurred amid a bins strike, anger over Gaza, and frustration with Sir Keir Starmer's government.
Two councillors resign within a week
Diane Donaldson, representing Hodge Hill and Bromford, was the first to leave. She said she walked away after being ordered to vote with Reform at a council meeting. She also cited national failures on Gaza and poor accountability. Councillor Majid Mahmood, from the same ward, followed, expressing serious concerns about Birmingham Labour's current state.
Mahmood accused the leadership of lacking experience and competence. He raised concerns about expectations to support Reform councillors in influential positions, Labour's immigration policy, and the refusal to acknowledge the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. He stated: 'The Labour Party has left me, not the other way around.'
Labour group responds
A Birmingham Labour spokesperson accused Mahmood of seeking to undermine the group and its new leadership. A Labour source claimed he 'jumped before he was pushed' and that his departure allows the party to rebuild without his ego. The group said it will continue as a united team, providing strong opposition.
These resignations reduce Birmingham Labour to 15 councillors, fewer than Reform, the Greens, and the Tories. New leader Nicky Brennan hopes to avoid further shockwaves as the group reflects and rebuilds.
