Four candidates standing in Salford’s upcoming local elections have signed a pro-Palestine pledge, placing the issue of international solidarity and ethical investment firmly into the local political spotlight.
The candidates, representing Your Party and running as independents, have backed the “Candidate Pledge for Palestine” organised by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign ahead of the May elections. The move comes as voters prepare to head to the polls in contests expected to shape the future direction of the city council.
By signing the pledge, the candidates commit—if elected—to a series of actions at council level. These include upholding what are described as the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, supporting accountability for alleged violations of international law, and ensuring their local authority does not contribute to or normalise such violations. This could involve pushing for divestment of council pension funds from certain companies and adopting stricter ethical procurement policies.
A spokesperson for Your Party Salford said the decision to sign reflected both principle and political intent:
“We felt it was important to sign the pledge and show solidarity with the Palestinian people,” they said.
“We hope voters will choose pro-Palestine candidates who oppose the genocide and ethnic cleansing in which this Labour government is complicit.”
They also pointed to what they described as limited uptake of the pledge among Labour candidates locally, claiming that only one Salford Labour candidate had signed.
The pledge forms part of a wider national push led by campaigners to encourage councillors and local authorities to take positions on international issues through investment decisions and public policy. More details about the initiative can be found via the Vote Palestine Campaign.
With polling day fast approaching in May, the issue is likely to become one of several dividing lines between candidates seeking election to Salford City Council, alongside more traditional local concerns such as housing, regeneration and public services.
