Labour Faces Backlash as Rochdale Candidate Azhar Ali Loses Party Support

The UK Labour Party has withdrawn support for Azhar Ali, its candidate in the Rochdale by-election, following controversial comments he made about Israel and Jewish people.

Initially, Labour stood by Ali after he claimed Israel allowed a Hamas attack as a pretext to invade Gaza. However, further comments surfaced, where Ali allegedly blamed Jewish media figures for the suspension of a pro-Palestinian Labour MP. Ali could still be elected as an independent MP since it’s too late to replace him on the ballot.

Despite initially defending Ali, Labour suspended him after more comments came to light. This move is seen as a step by Labour leader Keir Starmer to address antisemitism within the party. Ali’s withdrawal poses uncertainty for the by-election on February 29, where he was to replace the late Sir Tony Lloyd. Labour’s decision may impact the race, which includes candidates like Simon Danczuk (Reform Party), George Galloway (Workers Party of Britain), and Paul Ellison (Conservatives).

The withdrawal comes amid heightened pressure on Labour, with widespread condemnation from party members and rivals. Prominent Labour figures like Lisa Nandy, Anneliese Dodds, and Nick Thomas-Symonds had initially supported Ali, claiming he had apologized. The decision to withdraw support has stirred controversy, with critics viewing it as expedient and questioning Starmer’s commitment to combating antisemitism.

The by-election now faces increased uncertainty, with various candidates, including those from Reform Party, Workers Party of Britain, and the Conservatives, vying for the seat. The Campaign Against Antisemitism criticized Labour’s decision, while Prime Minister Rishi Sunak accused Labour of reacting to media pressure.

In recent months, Labour has faced multiple suspensions related to comments on the Israel-Palestine conflict, reflecting internal struggles over handling sensitive issues within the party.