Two pro-Palestinian activists are back in court, challenging their earlier convictions for harassing Welsh MP, Alex Davies-Jones. Ayeshah Behit, 31, and Hiba Ahmed, 26, were previously found guilty in June of harassing the Pontypridd MP. But the duo is now appealing the verdict, maintaining they did not harass Davies-Jones during a confrontation last year.
The incident unfolded while Davies-Jones was canvassing in Treforest ahead of the general election. She encountered Behit and Ahmed, who allegedly accused her of supporting genocide in relation to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The activists published posters outside the Labour office and shared a video on social media, which reportedly added to Davies-Jones’ ordeal.
At the recent appeal hearing, Ms Davies-Jones described feeling “scared, intimidated, [and] threatened” as the pair followed and shouted at her and her team. The situation forced them to seek shelter in a university building and eventually halt canvassing efforts.
The activists refute claims they deliberately targeted the MP, asserting there was no intention to track her movements. Ahmed, an architecture student, insists they were distributing leaflets without any knowledge of the MP’s presence, calling it a “shocking coincidence.” Behit corroborated this, explaining the aim was simply to inform voters about candidates’ stands on the Palestinian cause.
The confrontation’s aftermath has had serious implications for Davies-Jones, resulting in increased security measures due to persistent harassment and threats. The appeal in Merthyr Crown Court continues, with Ahmed due to give further evidence.
Stay tuned as this story develops – it’s a clash of convictions, perspectives, and the fight for justice on all sides.