Leader of Kirklees Council quits Labor Party as other councilors resign

Three Kirklees councillors, including the council leader, have spoken out after resigning from the Labor Party.

Councilor Cathy Scott, who served as council leader and represented Dewsbury East, released a statement following her decision to stand down as a member of the Labor Party, saying she would continue as council leader in her role as an independent. Meanwhile, councilors Habiban Zaman and Adam Zaman released a joint statement explaining why they are resigning from the party.

According to Councilor Scott, she believes “diverse voices” in Kirklees need to be heard without the “constraints of party affiliation”. She said it was “increasingly difficult” to represent her constituents “authentically” while a member of the Labor Party.

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She said: “Within the Labor Party, I found it increasingly difficult to authentically represent our residents as the party drifted away from my values. In addition, I have deep concerns about the direction and internal dynamics of the party.”

However, Councilor Scott will remain leader of the council and added: “I have been elected to serve in this role until 2026 and any changes will adhere to our constitution.”

In addition, Councilor Scott addressed the situation within the council, adding that while no party has a majority in Kirklees, the area “can ill afford a period of uncertainty, bad behavior and tribal strife”. She also addressed the financial situation, adding: “Under my leadership, the Council has achieved a balanced budget, but further action will be required and some decisions may need to be reviewed as circumstances change.”

Some changes have already been announced, with Councilor Scott announcing the termination of current cabinet members. Councilor Habiban Zaman was also appointed as a member of the Children’s Cabinet with statutory responsibility for children.

Councilor Scott said: “I invite all councillors, regardless of party affiliation, to discuss how they can contribute to these positions and this new way of working. These discussions should take place over the next seven days to ensure that the entire cabinet is operational quickly. “

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She added that she believed the current party system was beyond reform and said she was “ready to lead a new beginning” and work in a “non-partisan manner”. She concluded by saying: “We are facing unprecedented times and by coming together as one council we can harness our collective strength to overcome the challenges ahead. Together, we can create a future where every individual, every family and every community thrives.”

Meanwhile, councilors Habiban Zaman and Adam Zaman, who both represent the Batley East ward, also said they were announcing their resignation from the party with a “heavy heart”. They said: “It has become increasingly clear that the national party has failed to provide the necessary support to local representatives and members. This lack of support has significantly hindered our efforts to effectively represent our communities and uphold the values ​​we stand for.

“Furthermore, the party’s communication strategy and stance, particularly in relation to the harrowing events in the Middle East, have been deeply troubling. Unfortunately, poor handling and a lack of consistent communication has led to confusion and disillusionment among our supporters and constituents.

“I have always believed in the core principles of the Labor Party: social justice, equality and solidarity. However, the current trajectory and internal challenges within the party have made it impossible for us to continue as members in good conscience. It is hoped that this decision will highlight the urgent need for introspection and reform within the party.

“We remain committed to serving our constituents as independent advisors. We thank our supporters and colleagues for their understanding and continued support.”