Caerphilly Council Leader Quits Labour Backs Plaid During By-Election

Sean Morgan, former leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council, has resigned from the Labour Party, citing dissatisfaction with the party’s direction under Keir Starmer, including its stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict and the candidate selection process for the upcoming Caerphilly Senedd by-election. Morgan accused Labour officials of manipulating the candidate selection by excluding his deputy, Jamie Pritchard, in favor of a less known candidate, Richard Tunnicliffe, prompting Morgan to support Plaid Cymru's candidate instead. This resignation follows similar criticism from Professor John Ashton, a longtime Labour member, who condemned the party for abandoning traditional Labour values, particularly regarding support for the poor and the Gaza conflict. Labour maintains it is focused on delivering for Caerphilly and defends its candidate selection process as robust. The by-election was triggered by the sudden death of incumbent Labour MS Hefin David, and candidates from Welsh Conservatives, Plaid Cymru, Labour, Reform UK, Liberal Democrats, and Gwlad are contesting the seat. The developments highlight internal party tensions and challenges facing Labour in the region ahead of the October 23 election.