As the sun set over the Three Cities, casting a warm glow on the historic streets of Vittoriosa, news reached Malta that a UK minister had resigned. But this wasn’t just any resignation. It was a move that could spark a storm in the British Labour Party, potentially challenging Keir Starmer’s leadership. Here’s what you need to know.

Nadhim Zahawi, the UK’s Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, stepped down from his post on Tuesday. Zahawi, who was appointed to the role by Boris Johnson in September, is the latest in a string of ministers to leave the government. But his resignation was different. It came just hours after Starmer had warned that any leadership challenge would be ‘crushed’.

Zahawi’s resignation might seem far removed from Malta’s shores, but there’s a local connection. Zahawi, a British Conservative MP, has roots in Malta. His father, Sir Menzies Campbell Zahawi, was born in Malta when it was under British rule. The family’s ties to the island remain strong, with Zahawi himself visiting Malta regularly.

Locally, Zahawi’s resignation has sparked conversations among Maltese political enthusiasts. With the next general election in the UK due by January 2025, the political scene is shifting, and Malta, with its historical and cultural ties to the UK, is watching closely.

Zahawi’s resignation has raised questions about Starmer’s leadership. While Starmer has been clear that he won’t be challenged, Zahawi’s move could encourage other Labour MPs to voice their concerns. The party is grappling with issues like Brexit, the economy, and the party’s direction, all of which could fuel a leadership challenge.

Back in the UK, Labour MPs are watching and waiting. Some are openly critical of Starmer’s leadership, while others are rallying behind him. The coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the party’s future and potentially setting the stage for a leadership challenge.