Owen Jones’ Departure from Labour Sparks Controversy and Opposition

Owen Jones, a prominent left-wing activist and columnist, recently declared his departure from the Labour Party after a long-standing membership of 24 years, causing a stir within the political landscape. Jones urged voters to support Green and independent candidates in the forthcoming general election, noting his dissatisfaction with Labour’s current direction.

In response to Jones’ exit, a controversial group called We Deserve Better emerged, advocating for the backing of socialist candidates regardless of party affiliation. The group believes Labour and the Tories offer no alternative solutions and promises to focus on transformative policies like public services, public ownership, climate crisis action, and opposition to war crimes in Gaza.

The group has garnered support from individuals like Fatima-Zahra Ibrahim, Hamza Ali Shah, and Amna Abdullatif, and is based at Pelican House in east London, a space shared with various other organizations such as Momentum and the Centre for Progressive Change.

Following the public reveal of We Deserve Better, reactions from Labour figures have been critical, with commentary denouncing the initiative as undermining Labour’s chances of success. Luke Akehurst, a member of Labour’s National Executive Committee, expressed disappointment in Owen Jones’ decision and highlighted the group’s potential lack of impact.

Andrew Fisher, a former executive director under Jeremy Corbyn‘s leadership, distanced himself from Jones’ departure, emphasizing that the Labour Party remains a vehicle for democratic socialist values. The announcement sparked mixed reactions within the party, with some viewing it as a sad day of separation while others criticized Jones’ strategic approach.

Notable figures like Keir Starmer and Jeremy Corbyn, as well as instances involving Luciana Berger, Anne Ruzylo, and Rosie Duffield, have been central to the ongoing discourse surrounding Jones’ resignation and the ideological divides within the Labour Party.