UK PM Keir Starmer Set to Replace Key Advisor Ninjeri Pandit

London, Aug 28 (PTI) - Reports have emerged that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is poised to replace Ninjeri ‘Nin’ Pandit, a key figure in his team at 10 Downing Street. Pandit, who has been serving as the Principal Private Secretary (PPS) for just ten months, is reportedly being moved to a new role focused on policy delivery at No. 10.

According to the BBC, Prime Minister Starmer had concerns about Pandit's effectiveness within his inner circle. However, allies of Starmer dismissed these rumors, asserting that he maintains trust and confidence in her abilities.

Downing Street has not confirmed or denied this staffing change, but it has already drawn criticism from the Opposition Conservatives, who see it as a sign of the Labour government's wavering direction. Opposition Leader Kemi Badenoch took to social media to critique Starmer, stating, “Keir Starmer keeps sacking advisers, losing ministers, and briefing against his own team in the papers. Another reset won’t hide the truth: he has no plan, no direction, and needs his Red Folder to remind him what he stands for.”

Prior to her role as PPS, Pandit served as the director of the Downing Street policy unit starting in November 2022 under former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. She also led the health and social care team during the COVID pandemic in her tenure at the Downing Street Delivery Unit. Before joining the Prime Minister’s office, Pandit’s notable roles included being the chief of staff and lead policy advisor to the NHS England CEO and work in digital health services.

As she exits her role as Starmer’s PPS, Pandit marks the third senior aide to depart from Starmer's team in the past year, following the exits of chief of staff Sue Gray and director of communications Matt Doyle. The recruitment process to find a successor for Pandit is reportedly underway.

This news comes as government officials conclude their summer vacations and Parliament remains in recess, fueling speculation of an overarching reshuffle by Starmer that might include changes in junior ministerial positions as part of a strategic post-holiday reset.