Ayoub Khan MP: Kemi Badenoch’s comments about ‘Islamist politics’ are dangerous and ignorant
Conservative leadership hopeful claimed independent MPs were elected thanks to ‘sectarian’ politics and ‘alien ideas’
–
Britain’s shadow housing secretary Kemi Badenoch made remarks this week accusing me and my other independent colleagues in parliament of having been elected “on the back of sectarian Islamist politics” and promoting “alien ideas that have no place here”.
These comments, made as Badenoch launched her campaign to become leader of the Conservative party, are not only deeply troubling but also dangerous in their potential to foster division and hatred within our communities.
Language that labels and targets individuals based on their religion or background creates a hostile environment where prejudice and discrimination can flourish. When public figures use such rhetoric, it normalises and legitimises hatred and division, making it acceptable in public discourse. This is a dangerous path that threatens the fabric and democracy of our society.
I received a letter at parliament this week that I have reported to the police as a death threat. It makes reference to a “Muslim terrorist”. But language like this is, sadly, nothing new. Since being elected in July, I have been referred to on social media as a terrorist, a terrorist sympathiser and a Hamas supporter.
Such accusations not only grossly misrepresent my values but also incite further animosity and fear. The impact of such statements extends beyond personal attacks; they contribute to a climate in which bigotry and violence can take root.
I am not saying Badenoch’s statement resulted in the sending of this letter or any of the other comments I have received. But I am saying that rhetoric such as hers encourages this type of attitude. Comments such as hers are deeply offensive not only to me and my independent colleagues, but to every voter in our constituencies that supported and voted for us.
Badenoch knows nothing about me, my election campaign or the people who backed it. Perhaps she ought to visit my constituency, Birmingham Perry Barr, to meet for herself some of the diverse communities that supported me. There was nothing alien or sectarian about my campaign — even a cursory look at my TikTok videos would have shown her the diversity of my supporters.
We must confront and challenge rhetoric that seeks to divide us. Our democracy thrives on inclusivity, mutual respect, and the understanding that our diversity is our strength. It is imperative that we speak out against language that promotes intolerance and work together to build a society where everyone is valued and treated with dignity.
I call on Kemi Badenoch to retract and apologise for making such disingenuous remarks that are perpetuating harmful stereotypes and divisions.
Ayoub Khan is the independent MP for Birmingham Perry Barr.
Topics
Get the Hyphen weekly
Subscribe to Hyphen’s weekly round-up for insightful reportage, commentary and the latest arts and lifestyle coverage, from across the UK and Europe
This form may not be visible due to adblockers, or JavaScript not being enabled.