It’s very evident that ongoing discussion surrounding Oldham’s politics highlights a fundamental issue of public trust.
Regardless of the findings of any investigation, people expect transparency in decision making and public affairs. Doubts are created and amplified whenever there is a perception whether intentional or unintentional that information is being withheld or decisions are being made behind closed doors.
The negativity generated by these controversies has already damaged confidence and will continue to do so unless there is a collective effort to rebuild trust and consensus. I believe that scrutiny and accountability are essential in any democracy but we must also remember the wider context in which these debates are taking place.
Oldham remains one of the most deprived towns in the country. The gap between some of the wealthiest and poorest communities within the borough is stark. Child poverty, unemployment, poor health outcomes, and social inequality continue to affect thousands of residents every day. These are not abstract statistics; they are realities experienced by families across our town.
Many residents also feel frustrated by a lack of response to everyday concerns. How often do people report crime or antisocial behaviour and feel that nothing happens? How many residents have reached the point where they no longer believe reporting issues will lead to action? Public confidence is weakened when people feel unheard or ignored in their own communities.
At the same time, we appear to have created more places and reasons to separate ourselves than opportunities to come together. Too often, debates focus on differences rather than shared interests. We have become increasingly focused on what divides us while neglecting what unites us.
There is also an important distinction between personal rights and societal expectations. Individual rights and beliefs must always be protected, but they should exist alongside a shared responsibility to respect the rights of others and contribute positively to community life.
Perhaps the most uncomfortable truth is that accountability should not begin and end with politicians. If we are serious about improving Oldham, accountability must start with all of us. We need to focus on the issues where there is broad agreement rather than endless division.
Most people would support an Oldham that is clean, safe and welcoming. An Oldham where children go to school with a full stomach and have safe places to play afterwards. Oldham where crime is dealt with rather than ignored. Oldham where older people are not isolated and where community facilities bring people together. Oldham where education is delivered to the highest standards and every child has the opportunity to succeed.
We are often willing to invest in buildings and institutions, but we should be equally willing to invest in people, community spaces, youth provision and support for older residents. Strong communities are not built by structures alone; they are built through opportunity, participation and trust.
Transparency, accountability and good governance matter because they help create that trust. But ultimately, the success of Oldham will not be measured by political disputes. It will be measured by whether we improve the lives of the people who live here.
DR Zahid Chohan OBE
X Mayor Oldham
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