Monday, May 5, 2008, Rabi-ul-Sani 28, 1429    

MCB concerned over BNP success in London election

London—UK’s largest Muslim organisation-The Muslim Council of Britain has expressed concern over the success of far right candidate of the British National Party in the Thursday’s election of London Assembly and thought its awareness campaign did not yield desired result.

“During the election campaign, the MCB initiated a series of campaigns to encourage voter participation and to raise awareness against the far right.

It is disappointed that, despite an effort that involved an alliance across faiths and parties, the London Assembly now includes a member of the far right,” Secretary-General Dr Muhammad Abdul Bari said in a statement on Sunday.

“It is time for us to reflect on how, in this day and age, divisive and hateful parties can get a foothold in such an important institution. We must redouble our joint efforts to avert their influence or impact.”

Congratulating the newly elected Mayor of London Boris Johnson, he expressed hope that the Conservative party representative would continue to support the capital’s Muslim community just like his predecessor Ken Livingstone did.

Writing to Livingstone, Dr Bari said: “ London ‘s Muslims will not forget your staunch and unflinching support...you stood by us when slings and arrows were thrown our way by those who seek to divide us.” —AFP