Opinion: where has it all gone wrong for dreary keir starmer?
Keir Starmer’s start to the new year has been anything but inspiring. January has placed the Prime Minister under pressure, with attacks from Elon Musk stirring up trouble over the UK’s record on addressing ethnically-based sexual crime. Musk’s remarks have reignited debates about how institutions handled Asian grooming gangs, forcing the government into reactive territory. While Starmer’s record on prosecuting child sexual abuse as head of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is stronger than his critics claim, politics often leaves little room for fairness. His recent comments, accusing critics of “amplifying what the far-right is saying,” came across as defensive rather than decisive.
This latest controversy has deeply unsettled Labour MPs, particularly in areas like Yorkshire and the North West, where grooming cases were most prevalent. The political fallout has exposed lingering concerns about whether Labour is still perceived as “soft” on ethnically-based crime. Instead of merely defending his past, Starmer must firmly articulate how protections for vulnerable groups will be strengthened going forward. In moments of national anxiety, the country needs leadership that is purposeful and forward-thinking, not preoccupied with justifying the past.
A government without confidence
Starmer’s broader challenge lies in the perception that his government lacks confidence. While it’s clear he inherited significant challenges—a fragile recovery, international crises, and a public weary of years of Tory rule—there’s a growing sense that Starmer’s leadership is reactive rather than proactive. Despite Labour’s commanding majority, his administration feels like a ship adrift, weighed down by tension and a lack of direction.
A senior Blairite recently remarked that Labour has “forgotten what good looks like” after years out of power and the chaos of the Corbyn era. While Starmer deserves credit for cleaning up Labour’s reputation, particularly concerning anti-Semitism, his current approach lacks the decisiveness needed for this moment. Successful early premierships are defined by clear priorities matched with bold action. Starmer, however, has focused on long lists of vague “missions” that risk becoming bureaucratic exercises rather than meaningful changes.
Internal tensions and missteps
Tensions within Starmer’s Cabinet are not helping matters. Figures like Angela Rayner, who champions expanded workers’ rights, often clash with modernisers such as Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Science Secretary Peter Kyle, who prioritise a growth-focused agenda. These ideological divides risk undermining Labour’s ability to project unity and purpose.
Additionally, Starmer has faced criticism for some of his appointments. Transport Secretary Louise Haigh reportedly jeopardised a major infrastructure deal and brought her own controversies to the table. Treasury Minister Tulip Siddiq’s family ties to a controversial Bangladeshi regime have also raised questions about transparency, casting a shadow over Starmer’s judgment in key ministerial choices. These unforced errors have added to the impression of a government that is stumbling rather than striding forward.
Failing to make the weather
Starmer’s reluctance to make tough choices or articulate a bold vision has further dampened his appeal. His lukewarm speech on navigating the UK’s relationship with Europe and America exemplified this hesitancy. Governing is about making decisions, yet Starmer appears more interested in avoiding them. Such an approach risks leaving his administration looking inert and directionless.
More Read
Internationally, Starmer has also struggled to make an impact. While he is a regular attendee at summits and global meetings, he often fades into the background. His diplomacy lacks transparency and narrative, leaving many to question what he is achieving on the world stage. A Prime Minister must be seen as shaping events, not simply reacting to them, but Starmer has yet to rise to this challenge.
The leadership test
Leadership is about projecting confidence, especially in turbulent times. Starmer’s subdued demeanour and cautious style have left him looking ill at ease in the top job. Personal tragedies, such as the recent loss of his brother, undoubtedly warrant compassion, but they also highlight the need for a strong support system around him. Starmer needs advisers who can help him channel his strengths and project a sense of purpose to the nation.
The stakes are high. Voters want to see a leader who relishes the responsibility of governing and has a clear vision for the country’s future. If Starmer cannot demonstrate that he is up to the task, questions about his leadership will only grow louder. To succeed, he must shed the image of a reluctant and defensive Prime Minister and show Britain that he is ready to lead with conviction.
