(MENAFN) Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has been confirmed as the Labour Party candidate for the upcoming Makerfield by-election, according to reports on Tuesday, in a move that has fueled speculation about a possible future challenge for party leadership.

The decision comes after Labour MP Josh Simons announced last week that he would step down, triggering the by-election and opening the path for Burnham’s potential return to Parliament.

Burnham, who has served as Mayor of Greater Manchester since 2017, is now positioned to contest the seat next month as part of the Labour Party’s formal selection process.

His selection has drawn attention due to wider political speculation that he could emerge as a potential challenger to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in the future, should he regain a seat in Parliament.

However, any leadership bid would first require Burnham to secure victory in the by-election and re-enter the House of Commons. He would then need the support of at least 81 Labour MPs—representing 20% of the party’s 403 lawmakers—to trigger a formal leadership contest under party rules.

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