The Bunker – News without the nonsense Starmer's successor? – Who is Shabana Mahmood?
Oct 15, 2025
Rajeev Syal, home affairs editor at The Guardian, dives into the rise of Shabana Mahmood, the Labour party's emerging star. They discuss her groundbreaking conference speech, reframing immigration through a lens of belonging rather than nationalism. Syal outlines Mahmood’s early political instincts, her toughened stance on citizenship, and challenges ahead with small boat crossings. He considers her potential as a leader, noting her cross-party appeal and likability. With her unique background, Mahmood might just be navigating a path toward future leadership in Labour.
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Early Political Instinct
- As a teenager Shabana Mahmood would calmly cut through meetings and advise senior Labour fixers, signalling early political instinct.
- Tom Watson recalled she brought discussions to a halt by explaining exactly what to do and when.
Placed In Job For Delivery Credibility
- Rajeev Syal says Starmer prioritised delivery and moved Mahmood into Home Secretary because she delivered at Justice without huge backlash.
- Her track record of managing sensitive reforms made her suited to a high-risk, high-profile role.
Belonging Over Ethnic Nationalism
- Mahmood frames belonging as Britishness defined by contribution rather than ethnicity to counter ethno-nationalism.
- She wants minority communities to feel able to express patriotism, for example flying the Union Jack freely.
