We do not need to look for the top analyst on top of the tree; every PR guru has the same hymn. We can hear their chorus: Keir Starmer is keying into 10 Downing Street on 4th July 2024 general election. That’s largely not through the virtue of Labour but the awful failure of Rishi Sunak’s Tories. But instead of harvesting this lucky stroke of time, being grateful, and cherishing his own people, Keir Starmer went wild, hurting one of his key players, especially in East London, that helped sustain and grow the party. He singled them out and ruthlessly upset the whole British Bangladeshi community with his reckless remark on Bangladeshi migrants. That need not be—he was giving an example of his measure of tackling the immigrant issue; there are better ways to demonstrate that. But it was a moment he let it out of his chest, his disregard for one of the key players of his own party.

It begged a question. A question for every whistle-blower clamouring him as a rescuer of a sinking ship at number 10 Downing Street. Didn’t he show his incompetence as a saviour? A, he backstabbed his own party people; B, he underestimated a community that gave Britain its national food, contributing billions to the economy, and C, undermining history.

The truth is, Bangladeshis hail from a region rich in historic resources that brought immense fortune to Britain. It’s a fact. When Britain first encountered the Royal Court of Nawab Siraj-ud-Daula of Bengal, the region was the world’s wealthiest. However, after British exploitation, it was left impoverished. For example, the extraction of wealth and resources from Bengal played a crucial role in financing Britain’s Industrial Revolution, significantly impacting on its economic growth.

Today, the British Bangladeshi community continues to make substantial contributions to the UK economy. Our entrepreneurial spirit is evident in the thriving restaurant industry, particularly the iconic “curry houses” that are a staple of British culture and contribute billions of pounds annually. Additionally, many British Bangladeshis excel in various professional fields such as medicine, law, and education, further strengthening the economy. Our participation in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has also created numerous jobs, fostering economic growth and community development across the UK. This community’s hard work and dedication underscore their vital role in shaping a prosperous, multicultural Britain.

Starmer’s comments were not merely a slip of the tongue but a revealing insight into his political stance. For a leader on the cusp of potentially becoming the next Prime Minister, such statements are more than just missteps; they are indicative of a deeper misunderstanding and disregard for the very fabric of British multicultural society. The British Bangladeshi community has long been a vibrant and integral part of the UK, contributing not only to the culinary delights that Britons cherish but also to the economic and cultural richness of the nation. Our resilience and entrepreneurial spirit have turned us into key players, particularly in areas like East London, where our support has been crucial for Labour’s sustained success.

By alienating this community, Starmer risks more than just losing votes; he jeopardises the trust and solidarity that Labour has built over decades. It is this very trust that has seen the party through tough times, and undermining it now is not just politically unwise but morally indefensible. The hurt and disappointment among British Bangladeshis are palpable, and rightly so. Their contributions to the UK are manifold, and to have them singled out in such a derogatory manner is not only unjust but also counterproductive to the ideals of inclusion and equality that Labour purports to uphold.

In the grand tapestry of British history, the relationship between the UK and Bangladeshis is complex and deeply intertwined. From the days of colonial exploitation to the present era of mutual contribution, there is a narrative of shared destiny that cannot be ignored. It is this historical context that makes Starmer’s remarks even more damaging. They reflect a lack of awareness and sensitivity that is unbecoming of someone vying for the highest office in the land.

As we approach the 2024 general election, it is imperative for Keir Starmer to not just offer an apology but to engage in meaningful dialogue with the British Bangladeshi community. Words must be followed by actions that demonstrate genuine respect and commitment to addressing our concerns. Only then can he hope to rebuild the bridges he has so carelessly burned and show himself to be a leader capable of uniting, rather than dividing, the nation.

Keir Starmer’s controversial comments have cast a shadow over his leadership and raised serious questions about his suitability as a future Prime Minister. The path to 10 Downing Street is not paved with the alienation of key communities but with their inclusion and empowerment. Starmer must recognise this and act swiftly to rectify his misstep, lest he finds his journey to Number 10 thwarted by his own actions.