Zarah Sultana has become one of the most talked-about figures in UK politics this summer. Her recent decision to leave the Labour Party and announce the formation of a new political party with Jeremy Corbyn has sent shockwaves through Westminster. As the youngest and one of the most digitally savvy MPs, Sultana’s move is making headlines and sparking debate about the future of the British left. This article explores her background, the motivations behind her bold step, and what it could mean for the political landscape in the UK.
Early Life and Political Awakening
Born in Birmingham in 1993 to a family of Pakistani heritage, Zarah Sultana grew up in Lozells, a diverse area in the West Midlands. Her grandfather migrated from Azad Kashmir to Birmingham in the 1960s, joining the workforce that helped build the region’s industrial base. Sultana attended Holte School before moving to King Edward VI Handsworth Grammar School for sixth form. She later studied International Relations and Economics at the University of Birmingham, where she was among the first students to pay the £9,000 tuition fees introduced by the coalition government.
Her political activism began early. While at university, Sultana joined the Labour Party in 2011, motivated by the rise in tuition fees and cuts to public services. She quickly became involved in student politics, serving on the National Executive Councils of both Young Labour and the National Union of Students. Her early career included work in the third sector and as a community organiser, where she campaigned against austerity and the closure of public services.
Parliamentary Career and Rise to Prominence
Sultana was elected as the Labour MP for Coventry South in December 2019. At just 26, she was one of the youngest members of Parliament. Her victory was narrow, but she quickly established herself as a passionate advocate for social justice, climate action, and anti-racism. Sultana’s speeches in the Commons, often shared widely on social media, resonated with younger voters and those disillusioned with mainstream politics.
Her digital presence is formidable. Sultana is the most followed British politician on TikTok, with over 400,000 followers, and has a significant audience on Instagram, where she ranks among the top UK political influencers. She uses these platforms to communicate directly with the public, especially younger audiences, and to highlight issues such as poverty, the cost of living, and international solidarity.
The Two-Child Benefit Cap and Labour Suspension
Sultana’s willingness to challenge her own party became clear in July 2024. She was one of seven Labour MPs who had the whip withdrawn after voting to abolish the two-child benefit cap, a policy she argued would lift 400,000 children out of poverty. Sultana stood by her decision, stating that she had to defend what she believed were the true values of the Labour Party.
Her suspension was initially set for six months, but unlike some of her colleagues, Sultana was not reinstated. She continued to sit as an independent MP, using her platform to criticise government welfare policies and advocate for a stronger safety net for vulnerable groups.
Election Success and Local Support
Despite her suspension, Sultana retained strong support in her constituency. In the 2024 general election, she was re-elected as MP for Coventry South with 20,361 votes, securing 48% of the vote and a majority of over 10,000. Her victory reflected her popularity among local voters and her ability to connect with diverse communities.
Coventry South is a mixed urban seat with a high proportion of young people, ethnic minorities, and renters. Sultana’s focus on issues such as affordable housing, education, and public services has resonated with her constituents. She holds regular surgeries and is known for her hands-on approach to casework.
The Gaza Crisis and Foreign Policy Stance
Sultana’s outspoken criticism of UK foreign policy, particularly regarding the conflict in Gaza, has brought her national attention. She has accused the government of being “an active participant in genocide” and has called for an end to arms exports to Israel. Sultana has also condemned the 7 October Hamas attack and called for the release of Israeli hostages, while maintaining her support for Palestinian rights.
Launching a New Political Party
On 3 July 2025, Sultana announced her resignation from the Labour Party after 14 years of membership. She revealed plans to co-lead a new left-wing political party with Jeremy Corbyn, aiming to offer an alternative to what she described as a “broken” two-party system. Sultana criticised both Labour and the Conservatives for failing to address poverty, inequality, and the cost of living crisis.
The new party, which is still in its formative stages, promises to focus on tackling poverty, supporting a robust welfare state, and advocating for peace in foreign policy. Sultana has called for more investment in public services and a reversal of recent welfare cuts. She has also signalled support for trade union involvement and local grassroots organisation, with an eye on the 2026 local elections and the 2029 general election.
Public Reaction and Political Impact
Sultana’s announcement has generated significant excitement among left-wing activists and younger voters. Many see her as a fresh voice willing to challenge the status quo. Her use of social media has helped galvanise support and bring attention to issues often overlooked in mainstream debate
Conclusion
Zarah Sultana’s journey from a student activist in Birmingham to a leading figure in British politics is a testament to her determination and conviction. Her decision to leave Labour and launch a new party marks a significant moment for the UK left. Whether her movement can reshape the political landscape remains to be seen, but Sultana’s boldness and clarity of purpose have already made her a force to be reckoned with. As the debate over the future of British politics intensifies, all eyes will be on Sultana and her next steps.
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