The sister of hunger striker Kamran Ahmed has urged Labour ministers to meet urgently with representatives of pro-Palestine prisoners who are facing life-threatening conditions. Ahmed, currently held at Pentonville Prison in London, recently marked the 60th day of his hunger strike, while fellow activist Heba Muraisi reached 67 days and is reportedly suffering from severe muscle spasms that may indicate neurological damage.
Muraisi is not alone in this struggle; Teuta Hoxha has been on a hunger strike for 61 days, and Lewie Chiaramello for 46 days. Although four other prisoners have paused their strikes, they remain in critical condition. The hunger strikers are currently held on remand, accused of actions related to protests against Elbit Systems and at the RAF’s Brize Norton base.
The prisoners are demanding immediate bail and an end to censorship of their correspondence. They are also calling for the de-proscribing of Palestine Action and the closure of all Elbit Systems facilities in the UK. Ahmed was arrested during a dawn raid on November 19, 2024, and has remained in detention without trial since.
Shahmina Alam, Kamran’s sister, expressed her frustration with the Labour Party’s response to the situation. “Home Secretary David Lammy, people told me, used to stand for something. At the moment, he’s not even standing for having a meeting,” she stated. This sentiment reflects a growing discontent regarding the treatment of anti-war activists in the UK, who are often labeled as “terrorists.”
The ongoing hunger strike has prompted protests in support of the activists, with many participants echoing Shahmina’s criticisms of the government. “Growing up, we’ve always spoken about how the Western world is at the forefront of human rights,” she remarked. “But what we’re witnessing right now is the opposite of that.”
Shahmina expressed particular disappointment in Labour leader Keir Starmer, noting, “To be a former human rights lawyer, who has represented people that have taken direct action, and to respond the way he does now is a disgrace. It is shameful.” Starmer has previously stated that “rules and procedures” are being followed regarding the hunger strikers, but this has not quelled calls for action.
Despite multiple requests, Labour ministers have not met with representatives of the hunger strikers or their families. This inaction raises serious concerns about the potential consequences for the health of the prisoners, particularly if their conditions deteriorate further. Shahmina has made it clear that should any harm come to the hunger strikers, the Labour Party will bear the responsibility.
The situation highlights a critical moment for the Labour Party and raises questions about its commitment to human rights and democratic values amidst increasing public scrutiny. As the hunger strikers continue their protest, the urgency for a dialogue with government officials becomes more pressing.
