Lord Peter Mandelson resigns from Labour amid revived Epstein scrutiny

Mandelson steps down as Epstein files spark renewed scrutiny

Former British ambassador to the United States, Lord Peter Mandelson, has announced his resignation from the Labour Party following the release of new US documents linking him to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The documents, published by the US Department of Justice on Friday, include bank statements suggesting three separate payments of $25,000 from Epstein to accounts connected to Mandelson between 2003 and 2004. Emails and redacted photographs further show Mandelson in association with Epstein, including images of him standing next to an unidentified woman.

Mandelson insists he has no record or recollection of receiving the funds and stressed that being named in the documents does not imply wrongdoing. “While investigating these matters, I do not wish to cause further embarrassment to the Labour Party and am therefore stepping down from membership,” he wrote in a letter to Labour’s general secretary, Hollie Ridley.

Denying wrongdoing, apologising to victims

In his resignation, Mandelson denied any misconduct while maintaining a heartfelt apology to Epstein’s victims. “Their voices should have been heard long before now,” he wrote, emphasising his recognition of their suffering.

Mandelson’s departure comes after he was removed from his post as Britain’s ambassador to the US last year, following revelations of his continued contact with Epstein even after the financier’s 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor. He has described Epstein as a “charismatic criminal liar” and expressed regret over maintaining the relationship.

Political fallout in London

The latest tranche of documents has reignited scrutiny of Mandelson in British political circles. Conservative critics have accused Prime Minister Keir Starmer of delaying action against Mandelson, calling him “completely disgraced.”

Liberal Democrat and Labour figures alike have also highlighted the moral obligation of anyone linked to Epstein, including Mandelson and former Prince Andrew, to provide information to US authorities. The files contain references to Prince Andrew, intensifying public and political pressure in London.

Context from the US Department of Justice

The Justice Department has cautioned that the files were released without context, meaning inclusion in the documents does not automatically indicate criminal liability. The materials are part of ongoing disclosure requirements under US federal law aimed at increasing transparency around Epstein’s network.

Public reaction and broader implications

Social media users have reacted with a mixture of shock, anger, and resignation, with many calling for full accountability for public figures linked to Epstein. Others noted Mandelson’s resignation as a necessary step to protect the Labour Party from further reputational damage while investigations continue.

As the political and legal ramifications unfold, Mandelson’s resignation signals that Epstein’s influence continues to cast a long shadow over international political and social circles, years after his death.

{Source: IOL}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com