AN election candidate has been violently assaulted resulting in her needing medical treatment.
Carla Hales, Conservative candidate in the Colchester Council elections, was also subjected to verbal abuse in yesterday’s attack, the group’s leader said.
In a statement group leader Darius Laws said: “I am saddened and appalled to have learnt that earlier today one of our candidates, Carla Hales, standing in the upcoming Colchester Borough Council Elections, was verbally abused and violently assaulted.
“Carla sought medical treatment and is now recovering at home.
“This is the ugly side of politics and it is an attack not just on a Conservative but an attack on democracy.
"It is an attack on everyone who seeks to put their name forward to stand up for the communities, such violence and intimidation is utterly deplorable.
"I had hoped after the tragic murder of Jo Cox MP we might have learnt lessons about the way in which people with opposing viewpoints conduct themselves.
“I have asked the Police Commander for Colchester to ensure that this incident is investigated and the man responsible is brought to justice.
Will Quince, the Conservative MP for Colchester, described the incident as “absolutely disgusting”, adding: “My thoughts are with Carla who is one of the loveliest most genuine people I know and is a first time candidate. I hope Essex Police bring the perpetrator to justice.”
Ms Hales is a candidate in New Town ward in next week’s elections.
Morning all. Have to say, feeling the ❤️this morning. Nothing broken but some sore ribs and slightly bruised ego 😉@JohnHal75174634 excellent nurse. Taking a couple of days off campaigning but going to work. Children have a brilliant way of taking your mind off things! #thankyou pic.twitter.com/PJfZgDOKon
— Carla Ellen Hales (@CarlaEllenHales) April 25, 2019
Horrified to learn of this news. All candidates should be free to campaign without fear of assault or abuse. Our thoughts are with Carla at this time. https://t.co/FODfDsEHza
— Colchester Liberal Democrats (@LD4Colchester) April 25, 2019
Witham MP Priti Patel tweeted: "All best wishes to Carla following this utterly appalling & politically motivated violent assault.
"Politics is about people & public service. Carla is a credit to Colchester for seeking to represent & serve her community. Essex police must take action against the perpetrator."
All best wishes to Carla following this utterly appalling & politically motivated violent assault. Politics is about people & public service. Carla is a credit to Colchester for seeking to represent & serve her community. Essex police must take action against the perpetrator. https://t.co/qGt8xRSYKw
— Priti Patel MP (@patel4witham) April 25, 2019
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article