A Labour councillor who supported the ban on Israeli football fans attending an upcoming match has close ties to a leading candidate for deputy leader of the party.
Waseem Zaffar, who is backing Lucy Powell in her bid to become Sir Keir Starmer’s deputy, recently presented her with a heart-themed birthday cake. His involvement in the fan ban, which prevents Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from attending a Europa League game at Aston Villa next month, has sparked a political storm, reports BritPanorama.
Zaffar, who previously served as Birmingham Council’s equalities chief, stepped down in 2017 amid allegations he attempted to pressure a school to allow a four-year-old girl to wear a hijab. He now faces calls to be stripped of the party whip for his role in the fan ban.
In a recent statement, Zaffar highlighted that the board on which he serves decided that “fans of the Israeli team will not be admitted.” This contentious decision has attracted significant criticism from multiple political figures, including Sir Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch, who have condemned the move as contrary to values of inclusion.
Footage has surfaced of Zaffar leading chants in support of Powell during her birthday event, where he stated, “I’m supporting Lucy Powell — not just because her husband’s a Villa fan — but because she is the best candidate.” In the wake of the fan ban announcement, his political loyalty and judgment have been called into question.
The wider backlash against Zaffar’s comments and actions is indicative of Labour’s ongoing struggles with allegations of antisemitism within its ranks. John Woodcock, formerly an advisor on political violence and now known as Lord Walney, called for Zaffar’s expulsion from the party, emphasizing the need for Labour to move past its history of allowing antisemitism to take root.
Last night, a spokesman for Powell stated she disagrees with the notion that children should be compelled to wear a veil, asserting her commitment to inclusivity. While the controversy unfolds, the Labour Party must respond to growing allegations that it has failed to adequately address serious issues surrounding antisemitism among its members.
A Labour spokesman reiterated the party’s stance: “Everyone should be able to attend a match without fear of violence or intimidation — regardless of their religion, nationality or background.” The Prime Minister has also expressed disagreement with the decision to bar Israeli fans from attending.
