On 4 July 2024, the UK electorate goes to the polls to vote for who they want as their Member of Parliament.
EALING.NEWS has asked all candidates standing in the three Ealing constituencies of Ealing Central and Acton, Ealing North and Ealing Southall 7 questions about who they are, what they hope to deliver and why they want residents to vote for them.
Sameh Habeeb standing for the Workers Party in Ealing North answers the 7 questions:
Tell us a bit about yourself, your priorities for the constituency and why you want to be the next member of Parliament for Ealing North?
I’m Sam. Sameh Habeeb, a local dad and community campaigner with a deep commitment to addressing the critical issues facing Ealing North. I have firsthand experience in conflict zones as a field reporter, which has shaped my dedication to advocating for justice and humanitarian relief. My priorities for our constituency include tackling child poverty, enhancing our NHS services, and ensuring strong, proactive representation on issues like the situation in Gaza and ending our involvement in Wars. Instead of supporting Israeli war on Gaza, financial resources should be redirected to NHS.
Ealing North deserves better than the silence and neglect we’ve experienced from the current Labour MP. I want to be the next member of Parliament to bring a fresh start to our community, ensuring that our voices are heard and our needs addressed.
What motivates you?
My motivation stems from a deep commitment to justice, peace, and community well-being. Having witnessed the devastating impacts of war and conflict, particularly in Gaza, I am driven by the need to advocate for those whose voices are often unheard. Additionally, as a local resident and father, I am passionate about improving the quality of life in Ealing North, from addressing child poverty to enhancing NHS services. My goal is to bring about meaningful change both locally and globally, ensuring that our community receives the support and representation it deserves.
What is your own personal connection to either Ealing North or any other part of the borough?
I am not only a resident of Ealing North but also an active member of the community. As a local dad, I understand the challenges and opportunities that our area presents. I also do business in Ealing through my company and partners. I’m always proud to bring business to Ealing.
I also have a sad and shocking memory in Ealing. I was the only carer for my next of kin, Yousef, who committed suicide at Ealing Broadway station after being discharged from the hospital without a care plan or accommodation. I fought Ealing Council to provide him with accommodation, but in vain.
My connection to the community is both personal and professional, having engaged in various local campaigns and initiatives aimed at improving our neighbourhood. My experiences living here and interacting with fellow residents have given me a profound appreciation for the unique character and needs of our borough.
What do you consider to be your 5 top political or personal achievements and what impact have they had?
Advocacy for Gaza: As a staunch pro-Palestine advocate, I have consistently called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and highlighted the need for humanitarian relief. This advocacy has brought greater awareness to the plight of those affected by the conflict. Our government must stop its biased foreign policy and act fairly. Like Conservatives; Labour will continue such biased policy and will continue to damage the UK reputation worldwide.
Campaigning for NHS Funding: I have been a vocal supporter of increased funding for our NHS services, which has helped to bring attention to the critical need for more GPs and shorter wait times in Ealing North. I care a lot about mental health particularly after my next of kin committed suicide. I was his the NHS was not able to deal with his case because of the austerity and lack of resources.
Tackling Child Poverty: Through various local initiatives, I have worked to address the child poverty crisis in our area, advocating for increased support for low earners and welfare reforms that benefit struggling families.
Community Engagement: As a community campaigner, I have actively participated in and organised events and initiatives that foster a sense of community and collective action in Ealing North.
Global Humanitarian Efforts: My work as a field reporter in conflict zones has helped to bring global issues to the forefront, raising awareness and prompting action on international humanitarian crises.
What do you consider to be the top 5 challenges Ealing North faces and how will you as the MP address them?
Child Poverty: Ealing North faces a significant child poverty crisis. I will advocate for increased welfare support and initiatives to improve the living conditions and opportunities for our youngest residents.
NHS Services: With fewer qualified GPs than in 2019, our NHS services are overstretched. I will push for vital NHS funding to ensure better healthcare access and shorter wait times for residents.
Affordable Housing: The lack of affordable housing is a pressing issue. I will work towards policies that promote the construction of affordable homes and provide support for renters.
Cost of Living: Many residents are struggling with the rising cost of living. I will advocate for economic policies that support low earners and reduce financial strain on families.
Representation and Advocacy: Our current MP has been silent on key issues. I will ensure that Ealing North has a strong voice in Parliament, actively advocating for our community’s needs and concerns.
What do you love about the borough of Ealing?
I love Ealing for its vibrant community spirit and diversity. The borough is home to a rich tapestry of cultures, backgrounds, and experiences, which makes it a unique and dynamic place to live.
The sense of community, the beautiful parks, and the thriving local businesses all contribute to making Ealing a wonderful place to call home.
How accessible will you be to Ealing North residents and how can they get in contact with you now and if elected how will you ensure you are accessible to them in the future?
I am committed to being highly accessible to Ealing North residents. Currently, residents can reach out to me through my campaign office and various community events where I am actively involved in addition to my social media network or website at samehhabeeb.uk
If elected, I will ensure ongoing accessibility by holding regular constituency surgeries, maintaining an open-door policy at my office, and leveraging social media and other communication channels to stay in touch with constituents. My goal is to be a responsive and engaged representative, always available to listen to and address the concerns of our community.
