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British Indian Councillor Rishi Madlani Bids to Replace Keir Starmer in Holborn and St Pancras By-Election
A British Indian councillor is aiming to follow in the footsteps of a historic diplomat by contesting the parliamentary seat vacated by Keir Starmer. Rishi Madlani, a sustainable finance professional and former Labour councillor, has become the sole British Indian candidate seeking to represent Holborn and St Pancras after Starmer stepped down as MP earlier this month to focus on international affairs. His resignation has triggered a by-election expected in October, according to PTI.
Madlani has resided in the constituency for 25 years, having first moved there as a student. He credits the area with shaping his political outlook. "Holborn and St Pancras has been my home for 25 years, where my politics were shaped," he told PTI. He added that his background in sustainable finance has equipped him to balance economic growth with climate action, while his time as a local councillor gave him firsthand insight into the challenges faced by renters, workers, and young families in the community.
Madlani's candidacy has attracted interest from diaspora organizations including Labour Indians and Labour Friends of India, who note a historical connection between the constituency and Indian political history. V.K. Krishna Menon, who served as a Labour councillor in St Pancras, went on to become independent India's first High Commissioner to the United Kingdom in 1947. Labour Indians described Menon as someone who "began his political journey from St Pancras before achieving the highest levels of international diplomacy," and said Madlani's run reflects "the continuing evolution of British Indian participation" within the party.
While acknowledging pride in following Menon's legacy, Madlani emphasized that his campaign stands on its own merits. "I am standing because I believe I have something to offer this constituency," he said, citing affordable housing, climate action, and building a fairer economy as key priorities.
The by-election holds significance beyond the local contest, as it is viewed as the first major electoral test for Andy Burnham since he succeeded Starmer as prime minister in July. Green Party leader Zack Polanski is also eyeing the seat as a potential breakthrough opportunity for his party in the House of Commons.
The race has already generated controversy, with Reform UK facing allegations of racism over comments directed at another contender, Sagal Abdi-Wali, a former Somali child refugee. A shortlist of candidates, to be followed by a final list, is expected to be released this week.