- Braverman’s approach, using political situations for personal ambition, is deemed shallow and reprehensible, especially amid the massacre of Palestinians
- The MET support this Saturday’s pro-Palestinian march in London, emphasising that there is indeed nothing about the majority who are marching which is “hateful” or threatening.
Politically charged demonstrations against injustice is a crucial humanitarian act. However, for hundreds of thousands of Muslims who will descend on the streets of London this afternoon, it is a spiritual obligation.
The Metropolitan Police’s decision to permit a Palestinian solidarity march in central London speaks volumes about the predominantly peaceful nature of pro-Palestinian demonstrations, highlighting their profound significance in addressing fear mongering tactics used by some of our politicians.
In Suella Braverman’s recent article in the Times, she revealed another bloodless delivery to malign pro-Palestinian supporters. In the article, she alleged that supporters of the pro-Palestinian cause were “Islamists” and “anti-Semites”.
Additionally, she claimed that the police displayed bias favouring Pro-Palestinian protestors in their response. The Metropolitan Police vehemently refuted these allegations.
Notably, Downing Street did not fully sign off the home secretary to write the article. It is understood Number 10 were sent it and suggested changes that were not subsequently carried out.
The Tory party finds itself in a state of division regarding Braverman’s fate – opinions on her removal vary among party members. While some express support, others do not. The looming question revolves around whether Rishi Sunak will ultimately choose to part ways with her.
Labour was joined by the Liberal Democrats in calling on PM Sunak to sack Braverman, with party leader Sir Ed Davey accusing Braverman of “putting police officers in harm’s way”.
“The home secretary’s irresponsible words and foul actions have significantly increased the likelihood of unrest this weekend and the risk of violence towards officers,” he said.
Despite objections from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who cited the date as “disrespectful,” the police rightly prioritised public safety over potential political provocation. The more extreme characterization by Home Secretary Suella Braverman, labelling pro-Palestinian gatherings as “hate marches,” only misinterprets the sentiment behind such events and risks sowing division and suspicion. Braverman’s seeming alignment with personal ambition over diplomatic responsibility is not only shallow politics but, in the context of the ongoing genocide of Palestinians (as described by the United Nations), is reprehensible.
The attempt to stifle free expression in the face of political interference has only exacerbated societal division and emboldened far right wing extremists. Moreover, it is low level intimidation.
We pray everyone stays safe at the protest today.
