London, United Kingdom, September 13(HS): Labour MP Clive Lewis publicly declared Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer not up to the job as internal party anger mounts over the handling of Peter Mandelson’s controversial ambassadorial appointment and subsequent dismissal. Mandelson was removed following revelations of his close ties with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including previously undisclosed emails expressing personal support during Epstein’s 2008 conviction period.

The revelations have sparked a severe backlash within Labour, with MPs expressing frustration and despondency over the leadership’s judgment and the chaotic manner in which the crisis has been managed. Labour MP Paula Barker described Mandelson’s appointment as an absolute betrayal of the party's commitment to higher standards, particularly given the suspension of other MPs who opposed welfare cuts in defense of their constituents.

Despite initial support for Mandelson from Starmer, fresh emails published revealed encouraging messages Mandelson sent to Epstein, including advice to fight for early release during Epstein’s sex offense case. This led to Mandelson's forced resignation just days before a significant US presidential visit to the UK.

Senior Labour figures have also expressed dissatisfaction with the Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney, questioning his role and influence in Mandelson’s appointment. Calls have been made for transparency, with opposition parties demanding the release of all correspondence related to Mandelson’s appointment.

Meanwhile, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper defended Mandelson’s sacking as necessary, noting new information came to light post-appointment. The interim ambassador James Roscoe has been appointed ahead of the state visit, aiming to stabilize the diplomatic repercussions from the scandal.

The controversy has intensified scrutiny on Starmer’s leadership capabilities as party morale declines amid fears of reform fatigue and the rise of opposition parties like Reform UK.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar