After his comments on Israel, Labour has withdrawn support for Rochdale by-election candidate Azhar Ali. The decision comes after Mr. Ali allegedly made controversial remarks at a Labour party meeting, stating that Israel had “allowed” the deadly attack by Hamas gunmen on October 7. Mr. Ali has since issued an apology to Jewish leaders for his comments.
As a result, the BBC understands that Mr. Ali has been suspended from Labour pending an investigation, but it is too late for the party to replace him as its candidate. This means that Mr. Ali will remain on the ballot as the Labour candidate for Rochdale, but if elected, he will sit as an independent MP or join another party. However, it is highly unlikely that Mr. Ali would be selected by Labour to fight the forthcoming general election.
Labour’s National Campaign Coordinator, Pat McFadden, stated that Mr. Ali was suspended after more comments came to light, with the party taking a firm stance against antisemitism.
Historically, Labour has faced intense pressure and widespread condemnation from party members and political rivals since the remarks surfaced. The decision to withdraw support for Mr. Ali will come as a blow to the party, which initially stood by him as the candidate to take over as MP for Rochdale after the death of Sir Tony Lloyd.
The by-election for Rochdale will be held on February 29.