Labour Councillor joins the Liberal Democrats

West Northamptonshire Labour Councillor Farzana Aldridge, ward member for Kingsley and Semilong, has joined the Liberal Democrats.

Cllr Farzana Aldridge released the following statement earlier today:

“After much reflection, I have made the decision to leave the Labour Party and join the Liberal Democrats. This has not been an easy decision, but it is one that reflects my values, principles and my strong and ongoing commitment to serving my community, and the residents of Kingsley and Semilong and West Northamptonshire.

Over the recent past, I have become increasingly concerned with some of the decisions that the Labour party have been making at a national level. It seems to be moving away from the principled, community focussed and forward-looking politics that first inspired me to get involved. Nationally and locally, the Party has become increasingly driven by expedient financial and politically driven solutions, rather than the real and practical needs of residents. The Liberal Democrats share my belief of fairness, equality, humanrights and compassion. They place real emphasis on listening to people and empowering communities to shape policies and direction that best meets their needs. Liberal Democrats long standing commitment to environmental sustainability and social justice reflect the values I have always upheld.

I am also proud to stand with a party that consistently seeks to build a tolerant, inclusive and outward looking Britain, whilst ensuring the best possible outcomes for British citizens. At a time when politics feels increasingly polarised, the Liberal Democrats positive and collaborative approach offers me a constructive way forward. At a local level, I am joining a group with a mature approach to leadership where the talents, experience and expertise are respected, valued and put to good use to benefit residents of West Northamptonshire.

Ultimately, I am joining the Liberal Democrats because I want to be part of a movement that put people before party politics, focusses on practical solutions and works across divides wherever possible, to improve lives. My strong commitment to serving residents remains unchanged - but I now believe I can do that more effectively as a member of the Liberal Democrats”.

Cllr Aldridge has been welcomed to the Liberal Democrats by Group Leader Cllr Jonathan Harris, ward member for Brixworth who said, “Farzana is a very capable and hard-working councillor who cares deeply about her community. Her skills, experience and enthusiasm along with her strong commitment to represent residents in her ward, will make her a great addition to our team. It is clear that Farzana shares our core values of liberty, equality, human rights, internationalism, environmentalism, democracy and community. We welcome her and look forward to her contributions and work with the rest of the team.

West Northamptonshire Liberal Democrat Party Chair, Chris Leggett adds “We are delighted that Farzana has joined the Liberal Democrats and look forward to supporting in her roles as both a Northampton Town Councillor and West Northamptonshire Unitary Councillor”.