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Angeliki Stogia has been confirmed as the Labour Party’s candidate for the upcoming by-election in Gorton and Denton. Stogia, a councillor representing the Whalley Range ward in Manchester, steps in after the party denied Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham permission to run in the contest. The by-election is scheduled for 26 February, following the resignation of former MP Andrew Gwynne due to health reasons.
Speaking at the event announcing her selection, Stogia expressed her enthusiasm and connection to the area. She described herself as a “proud Mancunian woman” who has long been familiar with the constituency and voiced her excitement about campaigning. Addressing a gathering of party supporters, she said, “I am absolutely thrilled and excited, and I want to thank everyone who came to the hustings.” She emphasised her intent to win the seat for Labour, stating, “I am so looking forward to going out on the doorstep and winning this for Labour.”
During the announcement, Stogia was accompanied by prominent figures from the Labour Party, including party chairwoman Anna Turley and deputy leader Lucy Powell. She highlighted the importance of unity in Manchester, stressing that the city rejects divisiveness. “This is about Manchester. Manchester is a city united, we are rejecting division,” she said. Stogia framed the contest as a critical decision for Gorton and Denton between “a community that stands united or politics that divides neighbour from neighbour,” affirming her stance for “unity, fairness and hope.”
The selection follows controversy surrounding Andy Burnham’s attempt to stand in the by-election. Burnham had sought Labour’s approval to contest the seat but was blocked by the party’s national executive committee (NEC). The NEC cited concerns that his election to Parliament would trigger a mayoral by-election, causing unnecessary disruption and diverting resources from other campaigns. Burnham, who is considered a strong figure within Labour and a potential leadership contender, stated that his candidacy was motivated by a desire to counter Reform UK’s influence and protect Greater Manchester. Although he accepted the NEC’s ruling, he affirmed his commitment to campaigning for Labour in the by-election. The NEC’s decision sparked opposition from around 50 Labour MPs who signed a letter in protest. Prior to this, Stogia had stood as a Labour candidate in the 2024 general election for Chester South and Eddisbury but was defeated by the Conservatives
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