A Green Party deputy leader has secured a defamation settlement with a GB News presenter and a social media commentator after false claims circulated online alleging his involvement in riots. Mothin Ali, a councillor on Leeds City Council, was present during the 2024 Harehills disturbances to assist police and promote calm, but social media posts inaccurately stated that he participated in the rioting, the High Court in London heard.
Mr. Ali brought legal action against GB News presenter Alex Armstrong and social media commentator Bernadette Spofforth over defamatory posts shared on the platform X. Both defendants have since issued formal apologies and agreed to pay substantial damages for the harm caused to Mr. Ali’s reputation as well as for the distress incurred. Samantha Thompson, representing Armstrong and Spofforth, conveyed the apology in court, acknowledging the serious impact of the false allegations.
In a related development, police are investigating threats made against Mr. Ali after claims emerged that he had attended a rally supporting the Iranian government. The Leeds councillor has publicly called for apologies from Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Conservative MP Sir Alec Shelbrooke, who referenced the alleged rally attendance in parliamentary discourse. Mr. Ali reported to the BBC that he received multiple death threats on social media following these accusations.
The incidents highlight ongoing tensions surrounding public figures and the rapid circulation of unverified information on social media platforms. While Mr. Ali’s legal victory addresses the defamation issue related to the 2024 Harehills riots, the investigation into threats linked to the claims about the Iranian government support remains active, underscoring concerns about the safety and reputational impact on elected officials amid politically sensitive topics.