Lee Waters expresses concerns over Labour’s strategy ahead of the 2026 elections in Wales, urging a change in approach.
Cardiff: A former Welsh Government minister, Lee Waters, has raised alarms about Labour’s future in Wales. He believes the party could face a serious setback unless it changes its current strategy before the elections in 2026.
Waters, who served under Mark Drakeford, is questioning whether the approach taken by First Minister Eluned Morgan is effective. She’s been focusing on essential issues like job creation and reducing NHS waiting times, but Waters isn’t so sure that’s enough.
He pointed out that Labour needs to be cautious about the rising threat from Reform UK. If they gain traction, it could lead to a significant shift in Welsh politics, similar to what happened in Scotland. Waters emphasized that Labour has historically done well when it positions itself as a defender of Welsh interests.
He’s also skeptical about the party’s collaboration with the UK Government. Waters believes that simply working closely with Keir Starmer’s Labour government won’t be enough to win over voters, especially when many feel disconnected from politics.
Waters highlighted that the current political climate is tough for incumbents everywhere. With rising inflation and dissatisfaction among the youth, he thinks Labour needs to rethink its strategy. He’s concerned that the party is too focused on minor adjustments rather than addressing deeper systemic issues.
He mentioned that some initiatives from the previous administration have been dropped, which could alienate voters. Waters is worried that Labour is seen as the establishment after being in power for so long, and that could hurt them in the upcoming elections.
As he prepares to step back from politics, Waters is urging his party to take a more radical approach. He believes that without significant changes, Labour could be in for a rough ride in the next election.
