Prominent Pro-Palestine Activists Convicted in Westminster Court
Two leading figures in Britain's Palestine solidarity movement have been found guilty of breaching protest conditions, in a decision campaigners have labelled as "grotesque" and part of a wider attempt to undermine civil liberties. Ben Jamal, 62, director of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, and Chris Nineham, 63, vice-chair of the Stop the War Coalition, were convicted at Westminster magistrates court on Wednesday after a trial.
Details of the Charges and Verdict
The charges stemmed from a protest on 18 January 2025, one of 34 national demonstrations held since the war on Gaza began in October 2023. The activists were accused of failing to comply with conditions imposed by the Metropolitan Police. Judge Sternberg ruled that the conditions were lawful and necessary, stating that protest rights, while fundamental, are not absolute and do not permit breaching lawfully imposed restrictions.
Jamal was additionally convicted on two counts of inciting other protesters to breach police conditions. The judge stated that Jamal's speech at the protest constituted incitement, describing it as "a suggestion, persuasion, and inducement" encouraging a breach. Both defendants have announced they will appeal against the convictions.
Police Handling and Public Reaction
The Metropolitan Police has faced significant criticism over their handling of the central London protest, during which more than 70 people were arrested. Trade union leaders, legal experts, MPs, and peers have called for an independent inquiry into what they described as "repressive and heavy-handed policing" at the demonstration.
Previous marches had passed largely without incident, with relations between police and organisers considered cordial. Campaigners had wanted the protest to start or end at BBC headquarters in Portland Place to object to the broadcaster's coverage of the Gaza war, a location they said had been used twice previously without problems.
The Met stated they imposed conditions after considering "the cumulative impact" on Jewish Londoners, noting the march was near synagogues. Officers claimed they believed there was a coordinated effort to breach those conditions.
Political Figures and Supporters Respond
Dozens of protesters gathered outside the court on Wednesday morning, with the public gallery filled with supporters including former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. Speaking outside the court, former shadow chancellor John McDonnell, who was present at the protest, described the verdict as "grotesque" and warned it was part of an assault on civil liberties.
Corbyn addressed supporters, expressing he was "absolutely appalled and disgusted" that the activists were found guilty for standing up for Palestinian rights and the right to protest. Jamal and Nineham left the court to cheers from the crowd.
Activists Vow to Continue Campaigning
Nineham called the decision "extraordinary and shocking," describing it as a huge setback for civil liberties and an attempt to send a chilling message across society. He emphasised that the conditions represented a step change, particularly the refusal to allow marching near the BBC, which he said sent a dangerous signal.
Jamal criticised the trial's conduct, noting that six days were allocated for the case, with the prosecution taking four days and no additional time allowed for defence submissions. He vowed the verdict would not distract campaigners from their cause, referencing recent Israeli legislation and criticising the UK government's support for Israel.
Campaigners have confirmed that a protest for Palestinian rights scheduled for 16 May will proceed as planned, demonstrating their determination to continue advocating despite the legal challenges.
