Plaid Cymru has emerged victorious in the recent Caerphilly byelection, with candidate Lindsay Whittle securing 15,961 votes against Reform UK’s Llyr Powell, who garnered 12,113 votes. The win marks a significant milestone for Whittle, who asserted that this represents his “14th time lucky” after serving as a local councillor for 50 years.
In an acceptance speech, Whittle emphasized the importance of the byelection result, calling it a message to Westminster: “Don’t take us for granted.” He expressed hope for a positive political future in Wales, highlighting his commitment to continue the work of the late Hefin David, whose death necessitated the byelection. Whittle remarked on the excitement generated by young voters during his campaign, indicating a desire for a “better deal” for Wales from the central government.
Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth celebrated the win as a clear sign that his party is poised to lead the Welsh government in the upcoming Senedd elections next year. He acknowledged the deep-rooted disillusionment with Labour among the electorate and stated, “This Plaid Cymru win is the clearest evidence yet of who is in the driving seat to lead government for next year.” Ap Iorwerth also positioned his party as a positive alternative to Reform, emphasizing the need for fresh leadership focused on the future of Wales.
In response to the results, Labour’s Huw Irranca-Davies, the deputy first minister of Wales, acknowledged the party’s need for introspection but remained optimistic about its potential, invoking Mark Twain’s assertion that rumors of Labour’s demise are exaggerated. He reinforced the notion that hope and aspiration would be pivotal in overcoming current political challenges.
On the other hand, Reform’s Llyr Powell, despite losing, highlighted his party’s progress in consolidating support in Wales, asserting that they had “decimated Labour” in the region. He rejected the notion that the loss was a setback for their leader, Nigel Farage, asserting confidence in their grassroots campaigning for future elections. Labour candidate Richard Tunnicliffe defended the party’s efforts, noting they campaigned hard, knocking on 75,000 doors.
The byelection drew a historic turnout of 50.43%, the highest for a Senedd byelection, indicating heightened public engagement and interest in the electoral process. This significant turnout signals a changing political landscape in Wales, with voters clearly expressing their desire for a different approach to governance.
This win for Plaid Cymru showcases not only the shifting dynamics of Welsh politics but also the potential for new beginnings as they set sights on upcoming elections.