British Nigerian Labour MP Kate Osamor is currently facing suspension pending an investigation into her comments regarding Gaza as a genocide on Holocaust Memorial Day. Osamor made the controversial statement in her weekly newsletter, suggesting that Gaza should be considered among “recent genocides.” This sparked backlash from various organizations, including the Board of Deputies, the Jewish Labour Movement, and the Holocaust Educational Trust.
Osamor, who represents the constituency of Edmonton in north London, accompanied her statement with a photo of herself signing the Holocaust Education Trust’s commemoration book. In response to the criticism, she issued an apology on social media, expressing regret for any offense caused and acknowledging the ongoing humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The suspension of the whip, a term referring to a party’s withdrawal of support from a member, comes as internal tensions within the Labour Party persist over its stance on Israel’s actions in Gaza. Party leader Keir Starmer has voiced support for Israel’s right to defend itself while also calling for a sustainable ceasefire and expressing concern over casualties. The party’s position on this issue has led to internal divisions, with calls for a more critical stance on Israel’s military actions.
Jonathan Reynolds, the shadow business secretary, confirmed that Osamor is engaging in discussions with the chief whip about her comments and is scheduled for further conversations. The decision to suspend Osamor’s whip has faced criticism from Momentum, a left-wing pressure group within Labour, which considers it an “outrageous decision” that tarnishes Labour’s reputation for anti-racism under Starmer. They are urging an immediate reversal of the suspension.
Kate Osamor, the Labour and Co-operative Member of Parliament for Edmonton, has been involved in various roles since her election in 2015. She served as the Shadow Secretary of State for International Development from June 2016 to December 2018, advocating for the UK’s role in shaping a more equitable world. Osamor’s suspension adds to the ongoing debate within the Labour Party regarding its position on Israel and its internal dynamics.
Source British Nigerian minister, Kate Osamor suspended over genocide comments about Isreal Published in the Punch.