The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) is embarking on a transformative initiative aimed at mobilising the British Muslim community for civic engagement, drawing inspiration from Zohran Mamdani’s recent election as New York City’s first Muslim mayor. Under the leadership of Dr Wajid Akhter, the MCB is launching the “Hungry for Change” campaign, which seeks to register voters and promote grassroots activism ahead of the forthcoming local elections.
Learning from a Successful Campaign
Dr Wajid Akhter, who assumed the role of secretary general of the MCB last year, has been examining the successful strategies employed by Mamdani’s campaign team. “We spent time with his team to understand the essence of their approach,” Akhter shared during a recent discussion at a busy café in east London. One aspect that resonated with him was Mamdani’s unique way of intertwining issues like the Gaza conflict with local concerns such as housing.
The MCB aims to replicate this model, focusing on a dual approach that combines both digital and traditional campaigning. Akhter emphasised, “If you rely solely on one method, you risk becoming just another influencer. A successful campaign marries both aspects, tapping into diverse audiences effectively.”
The “Hungry for Change” Campaign
The MCB’s ambitious “Hungry for Change” initiative is designed to register Muslims to vote and engage them in civic activities. The organisation has already enlisted 200 “voter champions” across over 30 regions, helping to register thousands of individuals, with internal figures indicating over 3,377 visits to the government’s voter registration site. Akhter expressed optimism about the campaign’s potential to expand nationally by the next general election while maintaining a non-partisan stance.
Currently, there are around 2,000 mosques in the UK, with approximately 500 linked to the MCB. The organisation is shifting its communication strategy to leverage modern platforms, including video content, social media, and podcasts, in a bid to reach wider audiences and foster community engagement.
A New Direction for the MCB
The MCB’s current campaign marks a significant pivot from its historical challenges in engaging with the government. Akhter reflected on the organisation’s struggles since 2009, which stemmed from a controversial incident involving a previous deputy secretary general. This event led to years of disengagement from government channels, a policy that persisted through successive administrations until 2024.
Despite facing obstacles, Akhter remains resolute. “We understand that engagement won’t come from pity or national interest; it will come because they have no alternative,” he stated. The MCB is redirecting its focus away from seeking governmental approval and toward fostering meaningful improvements in the lives of British Muslims and the broader community.
Rethinking Community Engagement
Akhter envisions a future where mosques are not merely places of worship but also vibrant community hubs. Initiatives such as mental health first aid and CPR training are already being piloted in various mosques. He also advocates for a redefined approach to charity, encouraging more attention to domestic issues like knife crime and housing, rather than solely directing resources overseas.
Drawing on historical movements, Akhter finds inspiration in the resilience shown during the civil rights and anti-slavery movements. “They all faced seemingly insurmountable odds but persevered. This is our moment as British Muslims,” he declared, underscoring the urgency of collective action in an environment where Islamophobia is on the rise.
Why it Matters
This initiative by the MCB represents a crucial step towards amplifying the voices of British Muslims and fostering a sense of belonging within the broader national narrative. As Akhter emphasises, the commitment to community engagement and civic participation not only empowers individuals but also strengthens the fabric of British society. By encouraging active involvement in the democratic process, the MCB is paving the way for a more inclusive future, demonstrating that every voice truly matters in shaping the direction of the nation.
