Oldham MP speaks out about harassment and abuse in the borough
Oldham MP Jim McMahon has spoken out against the harassment and abuse directed at local politicians, calling it "completely unacceptable". The article details instances of abuse, including a councillor's grandson seeing mocked-up pictures with a noose, and the town leader attending a hearing for a man charged with threatening behaviour. It highlights the toxic atmosphere both online and in council meetings, with Oldham having the highest number of standard complaints against councillors in Greater Manchester. Calls are made for legal and code of conduct reforms.
Oldham MP Jim McMahon has condemned years of harassment and abuse targeting local politicians as “completely unacceptable,” describing the borough as “a sad example of politics torn by divisive actors.”
The Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton MP spoke out after Independent councillor Lisa Navesey revealed her 15-year-old grandson had seen mocked-up images of her with a noose around her neck. The disturbing revelation comes as town hall leader Arooj Shah attended a plea hearing on November 13 for a man charged with using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour towards her.
“If we want local people to come forward and serve in public life, it must be safe and rewarding as a bare minimum,” McMahon stated. “Oldham is unfortunately a sad example of a politics which is being torn by extreme and divisive actors chasing wedge issues, launching personal attacks and openly disrupting even routine democratic meetings.”
Many councillors have reported experiencing abuse both online and in-person, with some describing the atmosphere between councillors themselves as “toxic.” One councillor, speaking anonymously, said: “The level of disrespect and hostility towards people is just indecent.”
The government is seeking to strengthen rules around councillor standards, potentially introducing six-month suspensions for elected members who break the rules. However, current regulations have been described as “toothless” by the Local Government Association, lacking real sanctions or enforcement powers. Oldham currently has more than 20 active investigations into sitting councillors—the highest number of standard complaints against councillors of any council in Greater Manchester.
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