In the upcoming elections in the United Kingdom, a growing group of pro-Palestinian candidates is aiming to mobilize the Muslim vote. This group is capitalizing on the dissatisfaction of many with the handling of the war in Gaza by the major political parties, both Conservatives and Labor. The stance of these parties on supporting Israel’s right to defend itself has upset some of the 3.9 million Muslims in the UK, who make up 6.5% of the population.
While it is unlikely that many pro-Palestinian candidates running as independents or for smaller parties will be elected to parliament, their message will still send a strong signal to voters. Shanaz Sadiq, who is running for Member of Parliament for Oldham East and Sadleworth, believes that Gaza is not just a political issue but a matter of human rights. The campaign urges voters to support pro-Palestinian candidates from independent or smaller parties like George Galloway’s Workers’ Party.
The latest conflict in Gaza has led to an increase in independent candidates running in the election, many of whom are highlighting pro-Palestinian views in areas with significant Muslim populations. This could have repercussions for Keir Starmer’s Labor Party, which traditionally has had support from minorities but has been criticized for its response to the conflict. A significant number of Muslims are considering voting for independent candidates who prioritize the Gaza issue, according to a recent poll.
Starmer’s Labor Party has been faulted for its slow approach to calling for a Gaza ceasefire while promising recognition of a Palestinian state without offering a clear timeline for doing so. Many Muslims, like Rafit Hussain and Poppy Youssef from Oldham, are disillusioned with the major parties and are considering voting for independents who align more closely with their beliefs on the Gaza conflict.
In conclusion, pro-Palestinian candidates are gaining momentum among Muslim voters in upcoming elections in UK by capitalizing on dissatisfaction with major parties handling war in Gaza and defending Israel’s right to defend itself stance that upset many Muslims living in UK. While it may not result in many independent wins but their message will be strong enough to send across their ideology and concerns towards Palestine issue and push other parties towards taking action towards resolving this longstanding conflict
