Labour replace Glasgow candidate after fraud charge

Scottish Labour has replaced its Glasgow Southside candidate after he was charged with fraud, the party has said.

Mohammed Ameen, 43, was due to contest the constituency – currently held by former first minister Nicola Sturgeon – but has since been replaced by Rashid Hussein.

He appeared in private at Ayr Sheriff Court last Thursday charged with fraud, according to the Crown Office, where he entered no plea and was granted bail.

In a statement, a spokesman for the party said: “Scottish Labour holds its candidates to the highest standards of honesty and integrity.

“Upon becoming aware of serious matters relating to Mr Ameen, the party took immediate action.

“He has been suspended from membership and is no longer a candidate.”

It is understood the party had already agreed to replace Mr Ameen on the ballot paper for the May 7 election due to personal reasons, but took the decision to suspend his membership of the party after the issues came to light.

His replacement Mr Hussein said: “Glasgow is a city with huge strength, pride and potential – but after almost 20 years of SNP government too many people here feel let down.

“I’m standing to help deliver the change Glasgow Southside needs, get the basics right and build a better future for our communities.

“But people in Glasgow are tired of broken promises and being taken for granted.

“Glaswegians deserve better and Labour will deliver it – cutting NHS waiting lists, bringing back the family doctor, creating skilled jobs and apprenticeships, and making it easier for local families to find an affordable home.”