Toxic identity politics ‘tearing’ us apart, says former Oldham council leader
Arooj Shah, the former leader of Oldham council, has expressed concerns about the toxic identity politics affecting the community. She believes that the rise of extremist groups and misinformation surrounding local issues are contributing to political fragmentation. Shah's resignation follows a local election that left the council in a state of deadlock, highlighting the challenges of governance in a divided political landscape.
- ▪Arooj Shah resigned as leader of Oldham council after local elections resulted in no party holding overall control.
- ▪She warned that identity politics and misinformation are tearing communities apart, particularly in Oldham.
- ▪Shah has faced significant abuse and threats since taking office, which she attributes to her identity as a Muslim woman.
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Arooj Shah: ‘The politics in Oldham are toxic – because there’s a Muslim council leader and some people don’t accept that.’ Photograph: Joel Goodman/The GuardianView image in fullscreenArooj Shah: ‘The politics in Oldham are toxic – because there’s a Muslim council leader and some people don’t accept that.’ Photograph: Joel Goodman/The GuardianGreater ManchesterToxic identity politics ‘tearing’ us apart, says former Oldham council leaderExclusive: 25 years after race riots in north of England, Arooj Shah says extremist groups and lies about grooming scandal are poisoning OldhamChris Osuh Community affairs correspondentMon 1 Jun 2026 01.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on Google“Identity politics is tearing communities apart”, the former leader of Oldham council has warned, in the week…
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