In a bid to galvanise the Muslim community and enhance political engagement, the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) has unveiled a transformative campaign inspired by the grassroots success of Zohran Mamdani, New York’s first Muslim mayor. Under the leadership of Dr Wajid Akhter, who assumed the role of secretary general last year, the MCB aims to mobilise British Muslims through its “Hungry for Change” initiative, which seeks to register voters and encourage civic participation.
Learning from Success
Zohran Mamdani’s recent election victory, celebrated for its community-driven approach, has captured the attention of the MCB. Dr Akhter remarked on the campaign’s effective communication strategies, noting how Mamdani adeptly tied complex issues to relatable everyday concerns, such as housing and economic struggles. “Even when discussing Gaza, he would connect it back to the cost of rent,” Akhter observed, highlighting the importance of resonating with local issues.
Akhter emphasised the necessity of blending digital outreach with traditional campaigning methods. “If we can marry the two, then I think we’ve got something serious going,” he stated, asserting that a dual strategy is crucial for broadening the campaign’s impact.
The “Hungry for Change” Initiative
With local elections on the horizon, the MCB is seeking to replicate the successful elements of Mamdani’s campaign through its “Hungry for Change” programme. This initiative has already seen the recruitment of 200 “voter champions” across more than 30 regions, aiming to significantly boost voter registration among Muslims. According to the MCB, thousands have already been registered, with 3,377 visits to the government’s registration portal attributed to their efforts.
Akhter confirmed that the campaign remains non-partisan, focusing solely on empowering the Muslim electorate. “Our goal is to engage people in civic action, not to support any particular political party,” he clarified.
The MCB, which represents around 500 of the UK’s estimated 2,000 mosques, is also revamping its communication strategies. By embracing platforms like social media, video content, and podcasts, the organisation hopes to reach a broader audience and foster community engagement.
A Shift in Strategy and Mindset
The MCB’s recent initiatives reflect a strategic pivot away from a longstanding struggle for governmental recognition, which has been marred by political controversies. In 2009, a significant rift occurred when a former deputy secretary general signed the Istanbul declaration, leading to a sustained disengagement from government engagement that lasted over a decade. Akhter acknowledged this historical context, stating, “They will eventually engage with us because they have no other choice.”
Now, the MCB is redefining its objectives. Akhter expressed a desire for mosques to evolve into dynamic community hubs, offering services beyond religious observance. Pilot programmes providing mental health first aid and CPR training have already been introduced, showcasing a commitment to addressing pressing local issues.
Akhter also advocates for a shift in the perception of charitable contributions within the Muslim community. He encourages a focus on domestic challenges, such as knife crime and housing, rather than an overwhelming emphasis on overseas aid. “We need to rethink our priorities,” he said, emphasising the importance of addressing local needs.
Inspiring a Collective Movement
Drawing parallels to historical civil rights movements, Akhter believes the current socio-political climate demands collective action from British Muslims. He cited the resilience of past activists as a source of inspiration, saying, “Every one of these movements started off feeling like they were fighting against impossible odds. But they refused to give up.”
As anti-Muslim sentiment continues to rise, Akhter sees urgency in mobilising the community. “In a world where everyone’s going right, we dare to go left sometimes,” he stated, reflecting on the challenges facing Muslims in contemporary Britain. He remains optimistic about the majority of the public, who he believes are open to change and do not subscribe to divisive narratives.
Akhter’s comfort with his British Muslim identity was evident during a recent pilgrimage to Mecca, where he was recognised as a Brit among attendees from 190 nations. “They could tell us a mile off,” he said, sharing a light-hearted moment about the camaraderie that transcended cultural boundaries.
Why it Matters
The MCB’s initiatives signify a crucial turning point for British Muslims, as they seek to reclaim their narrative and influence civic life in the UK. By empowering the community to engage politically and socially, the MCB not only fosters a sense of belonging but also promotes a collective effort to address pressing societal issues. As the landscape of British politics evolves, the active participation of Muslims in the electoral process could reshape the future of community representation and inclusivity in the UK.
