In a controversial statement, Laila Cunningham, Reform UK’s candidate for the 2028 London mayoral election, has sparked outrage by suggesting that women wearing the burqa should be subject to stop and search procedures. Her remarks have been widely condemned as potentially endangering the city’s Muslim community.
Cunningham, who was announced as Reform’s mayoral candidate last week, stated that no one should be allowed to cover their face “in an open society”, adding that “it has to be assumed that if you’re hiding your face, you’re hiding it for a criminal reason”. This incendiary comment has drawn fierce criticism from community leaders and human rights groups, who have accused the candidate of promoting Islamophobia and discrimination.
“These kinds of remarks are deeply troubling and risk fuelling hatred and suspicion towards Muslim Londoners,” said Amina Khalid, a spokesperson for the Muslim Council of Britain. “Cunningham’s call to single out and target women wearing the burqa is not only misguided, but also dangerously inflammatory. It goes against the principles of an inclusive, diverse and tolerant society.”
Advocacy groups have also condemned Cunningham’s stance, arguing that it could embolden far-right extremists and lead to increased harassment and violence against Muslim women. “Her comments are reckless and irresponsible,” said Fatima Awan, director of the anti-discrimination organisation Stand Against Racism & Inequality. “They endanger the safety and wellbeing of already vulnerable members of our community.”
In response to the backlash, Cunningham has stood by her remarks, insisting that her proposal is necessary to maintain public safety and security. “I make no apologies for wanting to keep Londoners safe,” she said in a statement. “If someone is hiding their identity, it’s only reasonable to want to know who they are and what their intentions are.”
However, critics argue that Cunningham’s stance is not only discriminatory, but also ineffective in addressing genuine security concerns. “Singling out Muslim women for stop and search based on their clothing is not only a violation of their rights, but also a distraction from more effective counter-terrorism strategies,” said Khalid.
As the 2028 mayoral race heats up, Cunningham’s controversial remarks have thrust the issue of religious and cultural diversity to the forefront of the political debate in London. With tensions running high, many are calling for a more inclusive and nuanced approach to addressing the city’s security challenges.
