In a groundbreaking victory, Kerala-born mental health nurse Sojan Joseph won a seat in the British House of Commons, defeating former First Secretary of State Damian Green by 1,779 votes in Ashford, a traditionally Conservative stronghold.
Joseph, who migrated to the UK in 2001, contested his first parliamentary election and became the first Labour candidate to win in Ashford since the constituency’s creation 139 years ago. His triumph contributed to Labour’s resurgence after 14 years out of power, marking a historic moment for the party and his community.
In Kottayam, Kerala, Joseph’s family celebrated with joy and pride. His 86-year-old father, overwhelmed with emotion, shared, “We hadn’t slept all night, eagerly awaiting the results. His win in such a significant election makes us all incredibly proud.”
This victory reflects a significant shift in the British political landscape, showcasing the impact of diverse voices and backgrounds.