Muslim Votes Matter: New Advocacy Group Targets Key Seats, Challenges Labor Over Gaza Response
September 2, 2024Muslim Votes Matter is a newly formed political advocacy group that aims to mobilize Muslim Australians in preparation for the upcoming federal election.
The group is focusing its efforts on influencing federal elections in 12 key Victorian seats held by Labor, including notable areas like Calwell and Wills.
The movement was initiated in response to the government's perceived inadequate handling of the Gaza conflict, and it has already engaged over 2,000 volunteers.
Ghaith Krayem, a member of the group, expressed that the community feels disillusioned by major political parties, particularly regarding their responses to the Gaza situation.
There is a growing concern that ongoing anger over Gaza could significantly impact election outcomes in Labor-held electorates with substantial Muslim populations.
MVM's current priorities include raising awareness and educating the community about the importance of voting, aiming to combat voter apathy.
Targeted federal seats include Wills, Calwell, Watson, Fowler, Banks, and Mitchell, which are primarily held by Labor and Liberal parties.
Krayem warned that the voting patterns of the Muslim community may shift in the upcoming federal election, signaling a potential challenge for the Labor Party.
While MVM is not running candidates or providing financial support, it plans to endorse candidates whose values align with their priorities and distribute how-to-vote cards.
The group's long-term vision includes campaigning in state and local elections, emphasizing the community's desire to take control of their political future.
Charkawi pointed out that Labor has failed to adequately represent pro-Palestinian constituents, indicating a shift in the community's political engagement.
MVM is launching its national campaign in Broadmeadow, Melbourne, to advocate for increased political engagement within the Muslim community.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Aug 30, 2024
Labor will have itself to blame if it loses western Sydney over Gaza issue, says Muslim Vote convenerThe Guardian • Sep 2, 2024
Muslim groups to campaign on gambling and domestic violence in lead-up to Australian electionThe Age • Aug 31, 2024
‘A bit of a scare’: New Muslim group to pressure Labor in a dozen Victorian seatsnews.com.au — Australia’s leading news site • Aug 31, 2024
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