Apsana Begum MP seeks to increase protections for survivors of domestic abuse standing for elections

Bangla Mirror Desk:

Apsana Begum MP, a survivor of domestic abuse and violence, has tabled two amendments to the Representation of the People Bill, seeking to increase protections for survivors standing in elections.

Speaking in the House of Commons in on 30 June, Apsana informed the House of Commons about her horrific 2024 election experiences where her ex-husband stood against her, having already endured years of post-separation harassment in political party and court processes.

Apsana Begum MP’s amendments seek to extend the disqualification orders created in the Elections Act 2022- which already prevent offenders who have committed crimes motivated by hostility to candidates, campaigners, or representatives from holding elected office – to perpetrators of domestic abuse and violence.

Commenting, Apsana Begum MP said,

“The Representation of the People Bill is an opportunity to strengthen our democracy by ensuring that survivors of domestic abuse are not locked out or pushed out of political and public participation.

“I know from my painful experiences of post-separation harassment in the 2024 General Elections, that survivors of abuse need support to exercise their democratic rights to stand in elections without further harassment. I am determined to make this a reality for all survivors.

“I am pleased that this campaign has already received support from MPs from across political parties in the House alongside numerous organisations in the Violence Against Women and Girls sector who understand that the survivors’ and their lived experiences are essential in politics and for shaping public policy.”