**Grangetown By-Election: Labour Faces Challenge from Reform UK and Rivals in Cardiff Council Vote**
Residents of Grangetown in Cardiff are preparing to cast their votes in a by-election that is shaping up to be a significant test for the Labour Party, as they seek to hold on to a seat in one of the city’s most closely watched wards. The by-election was called following the resignation of outgoing Labour councillor, Sara Robinson, and is scheduled to take place on Thursday, 14 August.
Labour, which has enjoyed firm control in Grangetown in recent years, will see its dominance put to the test as several opposition parties put forward candidates in an effort to make a breakthrough. The by-election comes just over a year since the previous one in the ward—a reflection of an active period for local politics in this diverse Cardiff community. The previous contest, held in April 2024, followed the sad passing of long-serving Councillor Abdul Sattar.
Grangetown’s status as one of Cardiff’s ‘all-red’ wards will be placed under scrutiny, with many eyes on whether Labour can repeat its recent local success. The full roster of candidates represents a broad spectrum from across the political landscape. Standing in the by-election are Ahmed Abdillahi Abdi Samater (Independent), Khuram Chowdhry (Welsh Labour), James Hamblin (Welsh Conservatives), Irfan Latif (Welsh Liberal Democrats), Joseph William Martin (Reform UK), Neil Roberts (Plaid Cymru), Vincent John Yewlett (Propel), and Matt Youde (Green Party).
The presence of a Reform UK candidate, Joseph William Martin, highlights a broader trend seen in local and national elections, with the party making determined efforts to convert frustration with mainstream parties into electoral gains. At the recent Llanrumney by-election, the Reform UK candidate finished a strong second, a result that may embolden the party’s supporters in Grangetown.
Local residents have been encouraged to ensure their voices are heard. Those wishing to vote by proxy must submit their applications to the electoral registration officer at County Hall by 5pm on Wednesday, 6 August, while applications for emergency proxy votes must be received by the day of the poll itself, Thursday, 14 August. Detailed guidance, along with information about the by-election and the registration process, is available on Cardiff Council’s official website.
This by-election marks a period of transition and reflection for the ward. The loss of Councillor Abdul Sattar last year was felt keenly by the community, and the subsequent by-election saw his widow, Waheeda Sattar, successfully defend the seat for Labour in a contest marked by tributes to her husband’s service. Grangetown currently returns three Labour councillors—Waheeda Sattar, Ash Lister, and Lynda Thorne—reflecting the party’s strong position.
Sara Robinson, who triggered the current by-election with her resignation, had first taken up her role after the 2022 local government elections. Her departure underlines the pressures and demands placed on local representatives, and this by-election will likely serve as a gauge for both local and national sentiment towards Labour.
Looking further afield, recent voting patterns elsewhere in the city suggest a competitive environment. In the Llanrumney by-election just last month, Labour’s Lexi Pocknell retained the seat with 755 votes, but was closely followed by Cardiff’s first ever Reform UK candidate for council, Sidney Malik, who secured 630 votes. Such results signal a shifting political dynamic and possible growing disaffection among portions of the electorate.
As campaigning intensifies in Grangetown, party representatives are expected to focus on key local issues, ranging from housing and public services to tackling anti-social behaviour. The outcome on 14 August will be closely monitored for signs of larger trends that could impact future elections at all levels of government.
With a crowded field of candidates representing a range of viewpoints, the Grangetown by-election promises to be a significant event for Cardiff politics, carrying implications for both council business and party fortunes across Wales.