Political Parties Hijack Protests

national | anti-war / imperialism | opinion/analysis Friday January 09, 2009 13:27 by Pete - 'observer'

I have been at a few of the demos against the murders in Gaza, and rightly so... I deserve the right to go out on the streets and voice my opinion. There is one thing that bugs me though, the political parties are also out on the street and it doesn't seem they are there for the right reasons. Big banners bearing the names of political parties with no relevance to the situation.

Anyone present at the demos are sure to have seen this, so there is no point in naming any names. Not only have they the banners but stand away from the demo and wait for the end, to advertise their own material for their own benefit. I can barely write this without boiling with anger. These 'left' parties are ruining the demos. I am going to another demo tomorrow (sat) and I know what to expect. Banners with political parties names, political parties shouting chants over speakers, political parties handing out fliers and signs with the political parties name in big writing, and last but not least... political speakers (of course some are good) to mention there own party..... disgrace

All the political parties are simply opportunists. They should be ashamed. We should all be united, there are nearly 800 dead and these parties sit around thinking how they are going to take advantage of the demo, shame on you. These parties will never get my vote.