Living in Oldham, I witness firsthand how our town is being financially strained. Long-term residents are being overlooked, as I experience being put on a 10 to 15-year waiting list for housing. Disturbingly, new properties seem to bypass the public bidding process and are instead allocated to friends and family of the council or are given due to immigration, deepening the housing crisis for citizens like me.

My concern grows with the actions of Arooj Shah, who is reportedly bringing individuals with known criminal backgrounds into positions of power. The current situation is unacceptable, as seen with the candidacy of Irish Imy for Werneth—a convicted drug dealer and the getaway driver for the infamous cop killer, Dale Cregan.

Allowing individuals with criminal pasts to run for office raises serious questions about the integrity of our governing bodies. Such actions encourage corruption and compromise the safety and trust within our community.

It's essential we demand stringent policies that prevent those with serious criminal convictions from holding or running for public office. By prioritizing integrity and transparency, we can restore trust and ensure a safer, fairer Oldham.

Fuelled by personal stakes in our town's welfare and a deep care for its future, I urge you to join me in calling for immediate action. We need to put pressure on the Oldham Council to enact reforms that ensure better governance, and accountability.

Let's stand together to protect the future of Oldham. Sign this petition to demand the council address these pressing issues.