The recent exclusion of Faiza Shaheen by Labour’s NEC, citing her pro-Palestine views, has stirred controversy and accusations of a ‘purge’ of left-wing candidates within the party. The decision has led to Shaheen preparing legal action while Labour selects a new candidate for Chingford and Woodford Green.
Faiza Shaheen, claiming her pro-Palestine views led to her exclusion, was recently blocked by Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) from running as the Labour candidate in Chingford and Woodford Green. Shaheen, who narrowly lost to Tory MP Sir Iain Duncan Smith in 2019, is preparing legal action against the NEC’s decision. The Labour Party has selected Brent councillor Shama Tatler as their candidate instead.
Shaheen’s exclusion has sparked controversy, coinciding with similar actions against other left-wing candidates, drawing accusations of a “purge” by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer. Angela Rayner and Anas Sarwar, senior Labour figures, have expressed support for Diane Abbott, who faced suspension over a controversial remark but has since had the whip restored. Starmer, while acknowledging Abbott’s trailblazing role, emphasized that her re-admittance as a candidate is up to the NEC. Amidst these internal struggles, former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and others see a pattern of targeting left-wing candidates.
