AS a local Labour councillor, I see every day how the decisions of the powerful affect the lives of ordinary people.

In recent years, it’s become clear that the voices of our communities are at risk of being drowned out by the influence of a wealthy elite who shape the narrative to suit themselves.

Take Elon Musk, who now owns Twitter (or X, as it’s called). What used to be a space for ordinary people to share their voices is now controlled and at risk of becoming dominated by one man with billions.

Whether it’s through owners of newspapers or social media, the result is the same—ordinary people are sidelined while the rich and powerful dominate and shape the agenda. Far too many communities feel left behind and disengaged.

Even more worrying is the rise of "populist " political parties across Europe, like Reform UK.

These parties thrive on division, encouraging neighbours to turn against one another and........

© Evening Times