Two Green Party candidates from Lambeth have been arrested due to alleged antisemitic social media posts. The Metropolitan Police apprehended the women on Thursday morning as part of an ongoing investigation.
Overview of the Arrests
- Individuals Arrested: Saiqa Ali (57) and Sabine Mairey (54).
- Location: Lambeth, South London.
- Date of Arrest: Thursday morning, date unspecified.
Both candidates were vying for positions in Lambeth council, an area where the Green Party aims to increase its presence. The Met Police stated they were arrested on suspicion of stirring up racial hatred online, a serious offense under the Public Order Act 1986.
Details of the Allegations
The inquiry began after concerns surfaced on April 21 regarding antisemitic material shared online. Screenshots related to the suspects’ social media activities indicate troubling content:
- Saiqa Ali posted an image associated with the Islamist group Hamas, captioned with the phrase “Resistance is freedom.”
- Sabine Mairey shared a controversial quote stating, “Ramming a synagogue isn’t antisemitism. It’s revenge.”
Candidate Profiles
- Saiqa Ali: Nominated for the Streatham St Leonard’s ward; previously apologised for distress caused by her posts.
- Sabine Mairey: Running in Clapham Town; known for activism against estate demolition in Lambeth.
As the investigation continues, the Green Party has chosen not to comment on the matter. The party’s Lambeth website removed references to both candidates following these events.
Political Context
Lambeth council has historically been a Labour stronghold. However, the Green Party is targeting this area closely. Current projections suggest the party could secure as much as 34% of the vote, potentially positioning them as a significant political force in the inner London borough.
Recent polling by JL Partners surveyed 2,022 Londoners and indicated that the Green Party may emerge as the second-largest party in Lambeth council elections.
