POLICE are making inquiries into a TikTok video where an MP candidate for Bradford appears to suggest people “might” get a cake if they vote for him.
The video was apparently uploaded by Muhammed Ali Islam, who is standing as the Bradford Independent Group’s candidate for Bradford West in the General Election.
He recently became a councillor for Manningham after Local Election results were counted and announced on May 3, where the Independents received 4,100 votes and a 77 per cent share.
But Cllr Islam is the subject of scrutiny for the TikTok he apparently uploaded on his profile on Wednesday, which has since been deleted.
In it, he references a company in Bradford and “The Matilda” cake, which is like the chocolate treat from the film of the same name that Bruce Bogtrotter is forced to eat by Miss Trunchbull.
The 21-year-old labels the video as part of his bid to support local businesses for his campaign.
He says: “Many of you must have heard, Matilda cakes, the best in town.
“And all of you would have known that if you voted for me in the local elections then you would have got your free Matilda cake.
“Now if you vote for me in the General Election you might again get your free Matilda cake.
“Quote me when you get your cake and hopefully you might get a discount.
“Nonetheless, support the local businesses of the district.”
It then ends with a campaign photo of Cllr Islam, which features a picture of Big Ben and also the Palestinian flag – something that has formed a large part of his campaign.
The Telegraph & Argus has been told the video has been reported to the Returning Officer – the person who deals with the organisation and procedural matters during any election – as an alleged “electoral offence”.
A Bradford Council spokesperson said: “We take claims of electoral fraud very seriously and work closely with the Police and the Electoral Commission.
“The matter raised has been referred to the Police for consideration.”
A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: “We have been made aware of a video circulating on social media and will be making further enquiries to identify any potential electoral offences.”
It is a criminal offence under the Representation of the People Act, which covers elections, to “directly or indirectly give or provide any food, drink, entertainment or provision in order to influence any voter to vote.”
This is known as “treating”.
The law says: “Treating requires a corrupt intent - it does not apply to ordinary hospitality.”
The T&A has contacted Cllr Islam for comment but has not received a response.
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