Oldham councillors join George Galloway's Workers Party for 2026 election

Two Oldham councillors are teaming up with George Galloway's Workers Party for next year's local elections, marking a significant shift in the town's political landscape. The Oldham Group, which already holds several council seats as independents, will field joint candidates in Werneth and South Chadderton wards under the banner 'Oldham Group and Workers Party'.

Rangzaib Nazir will stand in Werneth while Saqib Javaid takes on South Chadderton. The partnership came together after a meeting on September 23 between the two groups, with Workers Party deputy leader Imtiaz Ahmad attending. The alliance aims to challenge Labour's dominance in Oldham, where the party currently controls the council.

The Workers Party, founded by the controversial former MP George Galloway, describes itself as socialist and working class but holds socially conservative views. It opposes NATO and supports a 'one-state solution' in Palestine. The Oldham Group itself is a mix of new independents and former Conservatives who campaigned on anti-Labour and pro-Palestine platforms in 2024.

Leader Kamran Ghafoor said they're seeking 'strategic partnerships wherever it will help get rid of the Labour Party' but stressed they remain open to working with other political groups. The local elections are set for Thursday, May 7, 2026, with both sides hoping their combined strength will deliver 'real representation for local people' as Galloway put it.