In a recent court ruling, Conservative MP Bob Stewart of Beckenham has been found guilty of racially abusing activist Sayed Ahmed Alwadaei during a demonstration outside a Foreign Office building. The incident unfolded when Stewart told Alwadaei to “go back to Bahrain” and accused him of accepting money from the country.
The trial, held at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, featured footage of a heated exchange between Stewart and Alwadaei. In the video, Stewart expressed disdain for Alwadaei and instructed him to “go away,” calling him a “stupid man.” Prosecuting attorney Paul Jarvis argued that Stewart’s actions displayed “racial hostility” and left Alwadaei feeling upset and humiliated.
Despite the guilty verdict, the prosecutor clarified that Stewart’s actions were not necessarily motivated by racial hostility. Stewart vehemently denied the allegations, deeming them “absurd” and “totally unfair.” He expressed deep hurt at having to appear in court and highlighted the impact on his life. Stewart maintained his non-racist stance and cited accusations of corruption and financial misconduct.
Throughout the trial, Stewart’s honour became a focal point. The MP emphasized the importance of his honour, stating, “My honour was at stake in front of a large number of ambassadors.” In addition to the guilty verdict, he was ordered to pay legal costs totaling £835.
The case has drawn attention to the complex issues surrounding allegations of racial abuse and the impact of such incidents on individuals and their reputations.
