‘We must face down the extremists’: Rishi Sunak warns British democracy under threat
Get Expert Analysis On Westminster Via Email Signup
Subscribe To Our Free Westminster Views Email
Rishi Sunak held an urgent press conference at Downing Street, urging the nation to unite against the threat of extremist forces targeting democracy. He emphasized the need to "beat this poison" and called for a collective effort to combat this menace.
During an exceptional speech to the community, he cautioned about the existence of powers "within our borders that are attempting to divide us". He emphasized the need for us to confront these forces and not back down.
Only a few hours following George Galloway's win in the Rochdale by-election, the prime minister declared that his triumph was "extremely concerning".
According to him, there has been a significant rise in extremist disturbance and illegal activities in recent months following the Gaza conflict which is alarming.
He declared that the initial protests held on our roads have now turned into intimidating situations with impending violence and planned threats.
Jewish kids are scared to put on their school attire as they are afraid it might disclose their identity. Muslim ladies are being mistreated on the streets just because of a terrorist organization they have no affiliation with. At present, our democracy is also under threat.
He mentioned that council meetings and nearby events have been singled out. He mentioned that Members of Parliament do not feel secure in their own residences, and parliamentary traditions that have been in place for a long time have been altered due to safety worries.
It is extremely concerning that in the recent Rochdale by-election, a candidate who downplays the seriousness of the events on October 7, praises Hezbollah, and is supported by Nick Griffin, a former leader of the BNP with a history of racism, was elected.
He made those remarks shortly after Galloway won the disorganized by-election and it was criticized as a negative occurrence for the Jewish population.
The UK prime minister recently expressed concerns about the country succumbing to "mob rule" and advised that swift action must be taken by the police to avoid losing trust from the general public.
The leader of the country ordered for a strong response to demonstrations and declared his intention to take all necessary actions to safeguard our democratic system.
During a gathering in Downing Street, he informed the officials in charge of the police that they needed to prove their capability of "utilizing the authorities they possess."
Protests regarding the Gaza war have triggered an increase in tension, causing MPs to experience immense pressure to support the demand for a truce.
Mr Sunak had expressed disapproval towards a group of pro-Palestinian protesters, describing them as an "intimidating crowd," who had gathered outside the residence of Conservative Party Member of Parliament Tobias Ellwood.
Last week, Westminster experienced chaotic and enraged moments due to the allegations against Commons speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle. He was accused of breaking the parliamentary rule book during a ceasefire vote. He stated that this was done due to the "frightening" threats received by MPs.
