Naushabah Khan, a Gillingham councillor since 2015, is stepping up as the Labour candidate in Gillingham and Rainham, a conservative stronghold for over a decade. In an interview with Asian Voice, she discusses her priorities, engagement with constituents, advocacy for South Asian voices, and why she believes she is the best representative for the area.
What are your key priorities and objectives for your constituency, and how do you engage with constituents to address their concerns and needs?
For me, this area is deeply personal because it's where I was born and raised. Over the years, I've witnessed how the local community has been left behind. Gillingham and Rainham have many residents who are struggling financially, and the area urgently needs investment, change, and growth. One of my top priorities is to attract investment into the town centre. I'm working with various groups and stakeholders to regenerate our high streets, particularly in Gillingham, which has declined over the years. I'm also keen to collaborate with local schools to inspire the next generation. For instance, I want to set up a summer school. Another priority is tackling the housing crisis in Medway. I believe that having a home is a fundamental right, and with my background in housing, I'm determined to address this issue effectively. About engaging with constituents, I'm actively involved in door-knocking, using social media, and writing to residents. I aim to meet as many people as possible from different backgrounds and experiences and I typically visit residents' homes 4 to 6 times a week to speak with them directly.
As you knock on doors, what are some key issues that the residents have addressed with you?
When I talk to people at their doors, I encounter a wide range of opinions. Many are deeply frustrated with the state of the country and feel a sense of hopelessness. They often express that, unlike in the past, hard work and doing the right thing no longer guarantee a better future for their children. This loss of optimism is a major concern. People frequently mention immediate issues like the state of the NHS, the cost of living crisis, rising mortgage rates, and poor road conditions. However, the underlying issue is a pervasive lack of hope. Immigration also comes up frequently in my constituency. People often express frustration about small boats and tend to blame immigrants for their problems. This sentiment is sometimes fuelled by political rhetoric that encourages scapegoating.
Given the current narratives of islamophobia and antisemitism, minorities may not feel safe or supported. As a woman of South Asian descent and part of a minority group, how do you plan to uplift their voices and ensure their concerns are addressed?
I'm a Muslim and from a Pakistani background and this cultural heritage is part of who I am and doesn't make me any less British. For me, it's crucial to encourage and speak to as many people as possible, showing them that voices are standing up for them and addressing their concerns. It's essential to counteract the negative rhetoric from right-wing parties about migrants and immigration. If we don't speak out, no one will stand up for us. If elected as an MP, I will proudly talk about these issues because we need people fighting our corner. Despite the negative rhetoric, this is a brilliant country that respects freedoms and is open and welcoming. We must ensure this positive message isn't lost amid the current noise. Additionally, I am passionate about encouraging others from my background to enter politics. That's how we shape the world and make impactful changes for different communities, ensuring fairness and representation. By being brave and vocal about our heritage and issues affecting minority communities, we can inspire others to come forward and ensure our voices are heard.
How will your leadership style differ from the current governance, particularly in an area that is another stronghold of the Conservatives?
Growing up, I did not have a lot of financial resources. I wouldn't have achieved what I did without the support of a Labour government that recognised the importance of equal opportunities regardless of background. Labour, to me, represents fundamental principles of equality, ensuring that nobody is left behind. Unfortunately, the Conservative Party does not uphold these values, as evidenced by the declining standards of living in the UK over recent years. This government has allowed the worst living conditions in recorded history to develop, and they fail to stand up for those who need it most. It feels like they've given up. While Labour may not be able to fix everything overnight, our principles and values drive us to fight for access to opportunities and to stand up for those without the same privileges. That's what defines Labour for me, and I believe these values are what our country needs right now.
What message do you have for the people in your constituency?
First and foremost, ensure that you exercise your right to vote. It's crucial to ensure that your voice is heard in this country, and one of the most powerful ways to do so is through voting and determining the direction of our nation. Amidst the noise surrounding political parties and their ideologies, it's ultimately up to you to decide where your political beliefs align and which party best represents your interests. I want to emphasise that if elected, I will work tirelessly to represent our constituency effectively in Parliament and ensure that the voice of the South Asian community is not overlooked.
