Arooj Shah, the former leader of Oldham council in Greater Manchester, has warned that increasing polarisation and identity-based politics are damaging community cohesion in the town and beyond.

Speaking shortly after stepping down following local elections that left the council under no overall control, Shah expressed concern that fragmented voting patterns could lead to political deadlock not only in Oldham but in other parts of the UK.

Oldham, a borough of around 250,000 residents, is currently experiencing political stalemate, with Labour losing seats while Reform UK and pro-Gaza independent candidates have gained ground.This shift has made it difficult for parties to agree on a governing arrangement ahead of a crucial meeting scheduled for mid-June.Shah argued that both far-right and far-left narratives are contributing to tension by fuelling anger and division within communities.

She also highlighted the legacy of the 2001 race riots, which began in Oldham and spread to other northern towns, noting that although community cohesion efforts had reduced street-level disorder in recent years, she believes misinformation on social media has reignited tensions.

In particular, she pointed to false claims about a supposed cover-up of grooming gang cases, which she said had intensified racist and misogynistic abuse directed at her and other public figures.An official safeguarding review found no evidence of a cover-up.Shah described receiving severe threats and abuse during her time in office, including racist and sexist messages and direct threats to her safety.She has required security protection, and council facilities have been reinforced due to safety concerns.

Despite these challenges, she emphasised ongoing regeneration projects in Oldham, including a £450 million investment programme and new educational initiatives.

However, she warned that economic development alone cannot succeed without stronger community cohesion, arguing that class inequality remains a key underlying issue driving division.

Political opponents from Reform UK and local independent groups rejected her characterisation of their positions, insisting their focus is on governance and local concerns rather than identity politics.

Shah concluded that increasing polarisation is undermining trust and cooperation within the borough, warning that this trend threatens the social fabric of communities like Oldham.