Starmer's Adviser Calls Alaa Abd el-Fattah Case a 'Running Joke'
# More Embarrassment for Starmer as Adviser Claims Alaa Abd el-Fattah Case Was 'Running Joke'
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has faced further humiliation regarding the case of Egyptian activist Alaa Abd el-Fattah. This comes after a revelation from his adviser, Mr. Ovenden, who described the handling of the activist’s situation as a "running joke" within government circles. Sir Keir had expressed delight at Abd el-Fattah's return to the UK, but this latest disclosure raises questions about the seriousness of the government's approach to the matter.
Mr. Ovenden indicated that Abd el-Fattah, who had been on hunger strike, was labelled a "top priority" by the government. However, he was taken aback by this designation, stating, "His designation as a 'high priority' for the Government came as a surprise to me – doubly so, because until recently I was in a position of influence over the Government's priorities." This suggests a disconnect between the government’s stated commitments and the internal perception of Abd el-Fattah's case.
Sir Keir had previously welcomed the activist's return, asserting, "I'm delighted that Alaa Abd El-Fattah is back in the UK." Yet, the comments from Mr. Ovenden about the case being treated lightly have detracted from this celebration, adding fodder for critics of the Labour leader's handling of foreign affairs. The exposure of such attitudes within government raises doubts over the sincerity of Starmer's advocacy for human rights and activism.
The implications of this incident extend beyond Starmer's personal standing and reflect broader concerns regarding the UK government’s approach to international human rights issues. The conversation around Abd el-Fattah’s case is now marred by accusations of insincerity and incompetence from within the Labour ranks.