Walsall Councillor Hajran Bashir has detailed the severe intimidation and abuse women faced at polling stations during the May elections. Speaking at a council meeting on July 27, Bashir was one of several councillors who shared first-hand experiences of gender-based violence in response to the appointment of a White Ribbon Champion, Councillor Nicky Barker, a role designed to highlight and tackle male violence against women and girls.
Intimidation at Polling Stations
Bashir stated that both she and her fellow female candidates were subjected to harassment, intimidation, and online abuse throughout the election campaign. On polling day, the behaviour escalated to such a level that many female residents felt uncomfortable and intimidated by groups of men standing outside polling stations. "My fellow candidate was subject to such intimidation that she had to run into the polling station out of fear," Bashir said.
The councillor revealed that some women chose not to cast their vote as a result of the intimidation. "I personally escorted several women to polling stations because they didn't feel confident attending alone," she added. Following the elections, many women spoke to Bashir about how intimidated they felt seeing groups of men gathered outside polling stations and on surrounding streets. "No woman should feel fearful when exercising their democratic right to vote," she emphasised.
Bashir also expressed disappointment at the lack of condemnation from others. "What saddened me most was the lack of condemnation. Very few people challenged this behaviour. That silence meant that the actions continued unchecked," she said. She called on people in politics to take responsibility and not support figures like toxic influencer Andrew Tate. "When you see people in power standing next to him in photographs, it doesn't send a good message to our young boys," Bashir added.
Council Appoints White Ribbon Champion
The meeting saw several councillors congratulate the leadership on appointing Councillor Nicky Barker as White Ribbon Champion. Councillor Simran Cheema, visibly emotional, said: "Far too many women suffer in silence and finding the courage to report abuse is incredibly difficult. When women do come forward, too many face barriers. Whether it's fear of not being believed, delays in accessing support, or navigating complex systems in one of the most vulnerable times of their lives." Cheema expressed hope that the appointment would strengthen the council's commitment to ensuring Walsall is a borough where women and girls can live free from fear, and where everyone plays a part in ending violence and harassment.
Councillors Share Personal Experiences
Councillor Kara Babb shared her own experience of abuse: "I would like to speak out about harassment and abuse to women within our society as someone who has been subject to this kind of abuse both in a domestic situation and in past relationships. I wish to express my admiration to all those brave women who stand up to men and boys and stand their ground in this increasingly difficult society."
Councillor Amrik Dhesy highlighted a specific incident: "I support this initiative. I'd like to draw attention to violence towards women within the borough, particularly the horrific attack on a Sikh lady that took place a few months ago. I would also like to commend the work of Park Hall Neighbourhood Watch who have done absolutely fantastic work in supporting that lady and other ladies in the borough."
Councillor Tim Wilson stated: "Violence against women and girls has no place in our communities and tackling it is everyone's responsibility, not just women's." Councillor Aftab Nawaz added: "Domestic violence impacts on every section of our society, and every strata of the system. As a council we need to speak with one voice and I'm happy that we will on this."
Calls for Action and Education
Councillor Peter Burton, who has worked with young men on domestic abuse education, said: "I have worked in a number of roles with young men to educate them around domestic abuse and also worked with the young children who were involved in exploitation. It's a massive problem. It's a hidden problem. We need to work together as a council to educate people and stamp it out."
Councillor Alan Fleming, a former police officer with 28 years of experience investigating domestic abuse, runs a refuge centre for women and children. He expressed his pleasure at Walsall Council's support for the move. Leader of the council, Councillor Elaine Williams, acknowledged personal experience: "I'd like to thank everyone who spoke in favour of the White Ribbon Champion. I recognise from my own personal experience as well which is why this is so necessary. I'm delighted that Councillor Barker has accepted the position."
Councillor Nicky Barker said the appointment was an honour: "Violence against women and girls is an issue that affects too many people in our communities. While it's vital that we continue to support victims and survivors, we must do more to prevent abuse from happening in the first place."
