Anti-Islam March Sparks Counterprotests in Manchester City Centre

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Hundreds of Britain First protesters gathered in Manchester city centre for a demonstration. The group, led by Paul Golding, chanted slogans and displayed Union Jacks as they prepared to march through the streets. In response, a counterprotest was organized by antifascist groups, which drew a larger crowd.

The counterprotesters carried banners with anti-racist messages and waved flags, including the Palestinian flag. Some protesters, including Ruby, 20, from South London, traveled long distances to show their support for the counterprotest. Ruby’s grandparents, who immigrated to the UK in the 1950s, expressed concerns about rising racism.

As the two groups faced off, tensions were high. Far-right agitators livestreamed their presence on social media as they entered the area assigned to the counterprotest. A confrontation between counter-protesters and far-right activists ensued, with police present but not intervening until the situation escalated.

The Britain First march began, flanked by police and led by Paul Golding. The crowd’s mood quickly turned aggressive as they encountered counter-protesters in the city centre. Police struggled to maintain order as the two groups clashed, with some protesters pushing through police lines and shouting anti-immigration slogans.

A number of individuals expressed frustration about the police handling of the situation. Pia Feig, of Jewish Action for Palestine, stated that the police allowed Britain First to organize on the streets, despite their divisive and racist positions. Audrey, a teacher and counterprotester, reported being pushed away by police after being shoved by a Britain First protester.

A police officer confirmed that the event required extensive planning and was challenging due to the changing routes of both groups. The incident occurred amidst other large events in Manchester, including football fixtures and rallies in support of Ukraine.

Source: Al Jazeera