- Sunak condemns extremism, urges unity
- Galloway wins amid controversy
- £31m for MPs’ safety announced
Amid community tensions exacerbated by the Israel-Hamas conflict, the Conservative leader urges voters to “eradicate this poison” and characterizes the outcome of the Rochdale by-election as “hugely concerning.”
During a national address from Downing Street, Rishi Sunak vehemently opposed “extremist forces attempting to rend us apart.”
The prime minister stated that “extremist disruption and criminality have increased at an alarming rate” and that “our democracy itself is now a target.”
Additionally, he characterized the outcome of the Rochdale by-election on Thursday evening as “hugely concerning.” He asserted that “small factions hostile to our values have commandeered our thoroughfares” while pleading for an end to “this poison.”
His unexpected address followed the triumph of independent candidate George Galloway in the Greater Manchester constituency after a campaign that was heavily influenced by the emotionally charged matter of Gaza and beset by allegations of coercion and intimidation.
Mr. Galloway replied that he “abuses” the prime minister and is indifferent to his views because he was elected in a “free and fair election.”
In the United Kingdom, community tensions have increased in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict, which was instigated by the militant assault on October 7.
Members of parliament (MPs) have disclosed instances of receiving death threats and expressed apprehensions regarding the safety of their families amidst persistent pro-Palestinian demonstrations. As a result, the government has declared an additional £31 million to safeguard elected representatives.
It occurred after tumultuous scenes at Westminster concerning the vote on a ceasefire in Gaza, during which Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle deviated from established procedures due to apprehensions regarding the intimidation experienced by certain members of parliament. This action incited a backlash.
Critics, however, contend that ruling party members have exacerbated divisions, citing the removal of the party whip from former deputy Tory chairman Lee Anderson for claiming that London mayor Sadiq Khan was under the control of Islamists and the use of the term “hate marches” by former home secretary Suella Braverman to refer to protests.
“In recent weeks and months, there has been a startling surge in extremist disorder and criminal activity,” stated Mr. Sunak.
“Protests that initially took place in our streets have transformed into threats, intimidation, and premeditated acts of violence.”
“Jewish children are apprehensive about being identified if they wear their school uniform.” Street harassment of Muslim women on account of the activities of a terrorist organization with which they have no affiliation.
“Our democracy is currently the target.” Local events and council meetings have been invaded. Members of parliament feel they need to be more secure in their residences. For safety reasons, established parliamentary conventions have been disrupted.
And it is beyond alarming that the Rochdale by-election returned last night a candidate who glorifies Hezbollah, disregards the tragedy of the October 7 attacks, and is endorsed by the racist former BNP leader Nick Gryphon.
He further stated, “We are a nation that cherishes our neighbors and is collaboratively constructing Britain.”
“However, I am concerned that our monumental accomplishment of constructing the most prosperous multiethnic and multifaith democracy in the world is being intentionally undermined.
At home, forces are attempting to divide us.
He continued, “Ideological extremism and far-right organizations are disseminating a poison, and that poison is extremism.”
Mr. Sunak declared the implementation of a “new robust framework” to “ensure we are addressing the underlying cause of this issue.”
The prime minister stated that ministers would redouble their support for the anti-terrorism Prevent program, demand universities cease extremist activity on campus, and take measures to prevent “values-undermining individuals” from entering the country.
Mr. Sunak issued the following appeal to those participating in pro-Palestinian demonstrations: “Do not permit extremists to commandeer your marches. You have an opportunity in the coming weeks to demonstrate that you can peacefully, decently, and compassionately protest for your fellow citizens.
“Let’s disprove these extremists and demonstrate that our shared values of decency and respect will never separate us, even when we hold opposing views.
“I owe so much to this nation, my family, and this nation itself,” “Now is the time for all of us to unite in opposition to the forces of division and overcome this poisonous substance.”
Sir Keir Starmer, labor leader, supported Mr. Sunak’s appeal.
He stated: “The prime minister’s endorsement of unity and condemnation of the recent reprehensible and intimidating conduct is warranted.
“Protecting our values and the unity that unites us is a critical leadership responsibility.”
“Elected representatives ought to be able to perform their duties and cast ballots without apprehension or bias, just as citizens have the right to conduct themselves without fear of intimidation.”
All parties are in agreement on this point, and it is something that we should all defend.
