Muslim Votes Matter: New Advocacy Group Targets Key Seats, Challenges Labor Over Gaza Response

September 2, 2024
Muslim Votes Matter: New Advocacy Group Targets Key Seats, Challenges Labor Over Gaza Response
  • Muslim 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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