Power Struggles in Welsh Labour: Eluned Morgan's Unfolding Selection Drama

Eluned Morgan’s tenure as First Minister is marked by a complicated selection controversy in Welsh Labour that’s stirring old rivalries and accusations. Morgan, who took office a year ago, initially aimed to restore party unity after a fallout over a controversial £200,000 donation scandal involving her predecessor, Mark Drakeford.

The latest internal issue revolves around the selection of candidates for the newly configured district of Caerdydd Ffynnon Taf, where the exclusion of hopeful Owain Williams has reignited tensions. Williams, a management consultant and ally of current Health Secretary Jeremy Miles, was deemed ineligible due to an administrative error with his party membership address, raising suspicions about the motives behind his rejection.

Sources suggest that Morgan allegedly intervened to support Williams, indicating a power struggle between factions within the party—those aligned with Morgan and those backing Miles. This internal conflict stems from recent leadership battles following Drakeford’s announcement of his retirement at the end of 2023.

Previous tensions in Welsh Labour reached a boiling point when Drakeford’s leadership was undermined by a scandal involving financial aid linked to illegally dumped waste, ultimately costing him allies, including Vaughan Gething, who is now stepping down from politics. The ongoing dynamics hint that some within the party view Williams’ candidacy as a maneuver by Miles to position himself for future leadership opportunities.

Despite being initially ruled out, Williams managed to push through to the longlist, allegedly due to Morgan’s influence, although she did not confirm or deny her involvement. Following a series of complaints and controversies over how party procedures are handled, Williams ultimately failed to secure a place on the shortlist, raising significant concerns about the integrity of Welsh Labour’s selection process. Morgan acknowledged her support for Williams but faced criticism regarding the alleged preferential treatment he received.

Now, as the party prepares for the upcoming Senedd elections, the debate over candidate selection and the implications for Welsh Labour’s future continues to loom large, with insiders reflecting on how personal connections and historical loyalties may impact party unity and its electoral prospects.