Full Breakdown
Labour Selects Angeliki Stogia for Gorton and Denton By-Election
1/31/2026, 7:44:43 PM
Context of the By-Election
The Gorton and Denton by-election, scheduled for February 26, 2026, was triggered by the resignation of Labour MP Andrew Gwynne, who stepped down due to health issues. His departure has raised concerns within the Labour Party about retaining this historically safe seat, especially following a recent poll indicating a potential loss to Reform UK.
Labour's Candidate Selection
On January 31, 2026, Labour announced Angeliki Stogia as their candidate for the Gorton and Denton constituency. Stogia, a Manchester city councillor since 2012, was chosen over Bury Council leader Eamon O’Brien after a hustings event attended by local party members. Labour's deputy leader, Lucy Powell, expressed her enthusiasm for Stogia's selection, highlighting her local roots and commitment to the community.
Stogia, originally from Greece, has emphasized her dedication to uniting the community and standing against what she describes as the "divisive politics" of Reform UK. In her announcement, she stated, “I am a proud Mancunian woman... This is about Manchester. Manchester is a city united, we are rejecting division.”
Internal Party Tensions
Stogia's candidacy follows significant internal conflict within Labour, particularly regarding the decision to block Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from contesting the seat. The party's National Executive Committee (NEC) voted against Burnham's candidacy, citing concerns over the costs associated with a potential mayoral by-election. This decision has sparked discontent among Labour MPs and activists, with some suggesting it was motivated by fears of Burnham challenging Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership.
Burnham publicly expressed his disappointment, stating, “The fact that the media was informed of the NEC decision before I was tells you everything you need to know about the way the Labour Party is being run these days.” His allies have criticized the NEC's decision as a "stitch-up," further complicating Labour's campaign efforts in Gorton and Denton.
Competing Candidates
Stogia will face competition from several candidates, including Matthew Goodwin from Reform UK, who has positioned his campaign as a direct challenge to Labour. Goodwin, a former academic and GB News presenter, has been endorsed by controversial figures and aims to capitalize on Labour's internal strife. The Green Party has nominated Hannah Spencer, a local plumber, while the Liberal Democrats have selected Jackie Pearcey as their candidate.
Implications for Labour
The upcoming by-election is seen as a critical test for Labour, with polls suggesting a tight race. A recent survey indicated that Reform UK could lead Labour by three percentage points, raising alarms about the party's ability to maintain its foothold in the constituency. Labour's leadership has urged party members to rally support, emphasizing the importance of this election in the context of broader national politics.
Conclusion
As the Gorton and Denton by-election approaches, Angeliki Stogia's candidacy represents both an opportunity and a challenge for Labour amidst internal divisions and external competition. The outcome of this election could significantly impact Labour's standing in the region and reflect broader sentiments regarding the party's leadership under Sir Keir Starmer.
