By George Lythgoe – Local Democracy Reporter
A Labour councillor has been targeted by a car whilst the driver shouted racial slurs, it has been alleged.
Greater Manchester Police are investigating claims of a racially aggravated attack yesterday in a car park off St Albans Avenue in Ashton. It is alleged that a car drove at Cllr Mohammed Karim when he was out canvassing with fellow Labour members on May 5 at around 2pm.
Fellow Labour canvassers from the scene described the perpetrator shouting ‘get back to where you came from’ from their vehicle.
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: “One man aged in his 60s was arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated public order and has been bailed pending further enquiries.”
Tameside council leader Eleanor Wills believes a ‘toxic’ political campaign in the lead up to local elections has resulted in tensions spilling over in this way. She says she has ‘never seen anything like it’ during her political career.
The Labour leader shared her concerns for her members, volunteers and activists in what was described as a shocking ordeal.
In a statement, Cllr Wills said: “There have been several incidents unfortunately, with tensions rising and hostility growing following lies being spread on social media and in printed format.
“Local politics has always been about serving the local community. It’s been about community minded people trying to serve the best interests of their community, no matter the political party.
“Sadly the harmful use of social media and lies being spread are dangerous and real people are at risk of harm.”