A NEWPORT Labour Party member has defected to the Liberal Democrats following the resignation of Victoria ward councillor Abdul-Majid Rahman.

Nurul Islam took swipe at his former party, saying it had a “lack of connection” to the area he represents.

Mr Islam said: “I have been a member of the Labour Party for years, but they are taking my community for granted and there is neglect of the area.”

A by-election is set to take place in the ward in December, following the resignation of former Cllr Rahman, who stepped down due to “personal reasons”.

Mr Islam continued: “A councillor has resigned, but the issues facing the ward have not been addressed.

“We need urgent change in Maindee, and I have joined the Liberal Democrats because they are the ones who can deliver it.”

John Miller, who is standing for the Liberal Democrats in the upcoming by-election,  said he “was delighted” that Mr Islam was joining the party.

The Newport Liberal Democrat group has said it sees itself as “key challengers” in the by-election.

The by-election will be on December 2, and polls will be open from 7am-10pm.

Welsh Labour has been contacted for comment.

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