Oldham Council leader Arooj Shah announces her resignation effective May 20, following a major setback for Labour in recent local elections. The borough grapples with deepening divisions, as residents demand quicker improvements in their daily lives.
Election Results Shake Up Council
Labour clings to 18 seats, while Reform UK surges to 16, becoming the second-largest group. The party gains 13 seats, propelled by strong voter turnout of nearly 47 percent. Independents, including the Oldham Group, add two seats but lose one to Reform. Labour, Liberal Democrats, and Conservatives all record significant losses. Labour opts against coalitions, yielding control of the council.
Shah Reflects on Devastating Outcome
Arooj Shah, St Mary’s councillor and the first Muslim woman to lead a northern town hall since 2021, shares her thoughts after reclaiming leadership in 2023 following a 2022 seat loss. “The results were devastating,” she states. “We campaigned for a year and a half, knowing the challenge ahead. At the count, seeing the far right on one side and independents on the other, I realized my town has been overtaken by division. That struck me deeply.”
Labour remains the largest group but must honor voter sentiment. “Residents believe Oldham is broken, as Reform claims,” Shah notes. “Now, they must deliver the alternatives promised on doorsteps.”
Achievements and Challenges During Tenure
Shah guides the council through key successes, including the launch of a new market, the revival of Oldham Coliseum, and a multimillion-pound deal with developer Muse. Tough issues persist, such as a mass grave discovered at Royton Cemetery, efforts to exit the Greater Manchester Places for People housing scheme, and demands for a national probe into historic child sexual exploitation.
“I love this town with a passion,” Shah declares. “Born and bred in Oldham, stepping down feels like a personal loss. We pursued a five-to-10-year improvement plan and achieved much already. Doorstep conversations showed belief in our vision.”
Fears for Oldham’s Future
Shah agonizes over the decision. “So much hangs in the balance. I pondered for hours and respect democracy, though I fear what lies ahead for Oldham.” She attributes the shift to misleading narratives and populism. “Lives haven’t improved fast enough, breeding resentment toward those in power. Populism appeals when change lags.”
Leadership remains uncertain, with Reform UK rejecting coalitions. No group holds a third of seats, complicating minority administration. Fears rise that the smallest mandate could lead, potentially requiring government intervention. Labour commits to opposition.
Major projects face risks, including Eton Star Academy on Tommyfield Market and Muse’s regeneration for 2,000 town center homes. “I would be devastated if anyone dismantles Eton Star or the Muse plans for political gain over opportunities for Oldham residents,” Shah warns.
A vote on new leadership occurs at the full council meeting on May 20.
