Hamilton MPP Sarah Jama leaves 'door open' on return to NDP as party looks to next election

Hamilton MPP Sarah Jama, who became an Independent after the New Democrats expelled her from caucus a year ago, says she'd be open to returning to the NDP but the ball is in the party's court. 

"While we have a very active Hamilton Independent Constituency Association and I plan to run independently, I have always left the door open to returning," Jama told CBC Hamilton in an email this week. 

As previously reported, the Ontario NDP is studying possible "electoral scenarios" in the Hamilton Centre riding Jama represents, including bringing her back into the fold.  

"That decision lies squarely with the party," Jama said. "We have more in common than we do differences. Reconciliation would send a great message. Overall, I am willing to do what is best for my constituency."

In a separate email, Jama was asked if she'd definitely accept returning to the NDP if asked or would further consider it. A response wasn't received by publication time.

The NDP removed Jama from caucus in October 2023 over her statements about the Israel-Hamas war. At the time, leader Marit Stiles said Jama had "undertaken a number of unilateral actions that have undermined our collective work and broken the trust of her colleagues." 

The MPP, who represents downtown Hamilton, announced in September her intention to run independently in the next election.

As per a motion passed by the Ontario NDP executive in September, Kevin Beaulieu, the party's provincial director, will produce a report on Hamilton Centre this month. Other scenarios it will examine include endorsing Jama as an Independent candidate, not running any NDP candidate in Hamilton Centre or running a candidate against her.

"It is not unusual for the executive to request a report from staff on any number of matters, including the electoral impact of an incumbent MPP running for a different level of government or running independently," Beaulieu previously said in a statement. He added the party plans to nominate candidates in all ridings.

Following CBC Hamilton's report, Stiles told journalists the process was "not really anything out of the ordinary" and the party was not discussing Jama potentially running for them at the time. 

For her part, Jama said, she never intended to get kicked out of the party last year.

After Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, 2023 — killing 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostage, according to Israeli tallies — Jama posted a statement calling for a ceasefire and an "end to all occupation of Palestinian land." She did not directly mention the Hamas attacks and later apologized.

Some public figures, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, accused Jama of antisemitism. 

Since Oct. 7, Israel has killed over 42,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not differentiate between civilians and fighters in its death toll.