Diane Abbott has been readmitted to the Labour Party after completing an online antisemitism course, but her candidacy in the upcoming general election remains uncertain. Reactions to the handling of her case have been divided, with left-wing members criticising the process and expressing support for Abbott.
Diane Abbott has been readmitted to the Labour Party but faces potential exclusion from standing in the upcoming general election on July 4. Abbott, who has represented Hackney North and Stoke Newington since 1987, was suspended in April 2023 following comments she made suggesting that Jewish, Irish, and Traveller people experience prejudice but not racism.
Despite an inquiry concluding in December 2023, Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) issued her a formal warning and required her to complete an online antisemitism course, which she finished in February 2024. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer stated that the NEC would decide on her candidacy in due course and refused to confirm whether Abbott would be allowed to stand for the party.
Reactions to the handling of Abbott’s case have been polarized. Left-wing Labour members and activists, including Momentum, have criticized the prolonged process and accused the leadership of attempting to marginalize Abbott. Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, now running as an independent candidate, also expressed support for Abbott.
The situation remains fluid, with Labour yet to officially announce Abbott’s candidacy status. Potential replacements for her candidacy include Anntoinette Bramble, Sem Moema, and Mete Coban.
