The 2010 General Election is the most closely contested in our country for a generation. No party is assured or confident of victory.
We are encouraged by Muslim community groups' participation in debates and intensive campaigning, signaling political maturity and a determination to exercise our democratic right to elect our representatives in Parliament. We commend the constructive engagement of YouElect, Muslim Vote, IFE, MAB , Engage, MPAC and many others, raising awareness and enthusing British Muslims to have a greater say in the future of the country. Never before have so many Muslim candidates contested in a British General Election.
There are key areas which may shape and guide Muslim voters when choosing their parliamentary candidates.
On the domestic level, there are a number of issues which are of particular concern to the Muslim community and which a new government should take into consideration. These include:
o Confronting Islamophobia, and in particular supporting calls for the establishment of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Islamophobia.
o The rise of the far right groups and the need for a vociferous response.
o Social cohesion – including listening to ‘faith communities’ and addressing issues of concern such as religious and cultural expression in particular the adoption of religious dress, the presence of faith schools and planning permission for building Mosques.
o Anti-terror legislation which has damaged confidence from within the Muslim community especially with regards to the Prevent strategy which has unfairly targeted the Muslim community.
o The need to raise education standards across all schools and to ensure that they meet the cultural needs of their local communities.
On foreign policy, British Muslims as the vast majority of British public demand the immediate return of our troops from Afghanistan and to help the people of Afghanistan people to rebuild their country. There should be no more involvement in illegal wars. The Palestinian issue is of special concern to British Muslims. They expect the members of next Parliament to stand firmly against the Israeli occupation, to oppose any attacks on universal jurisdiction, to work to end the siege on Gaza and to call for an end to Britain ’s arms trade with Israel .
As British citizens we are morally bound to participate in the political process to secure the best government for our country and pursue our legitimate aspirations. Although it is often difficult to distinguish between parties, we should identify candidates most deserving of our support who have good chances of winning. Muslims need to vote responsibly and tactically, which may require supporting a candidate with whom we may not agree on every political view.
After substantial research and wide consultation, taking local, national and international issues into consideration, BMI has compiled a list of recommended candidates in order to help individuals make an informed choice at the elections.
The Muslim vote does not only count. It can decide. Vote responsibly and vote tactically.
For more information please call Anas Altikriti, BMI spokesman, on 07899806000
For information on the candidates visit www.youelect.org.uk
The British Muslim Initiative
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