Times Online: "The Muslim vote"

Sajda writes:
Britain is buzzing with the election campaign. I think this is proving to be a remarkably memorable one: the expenses scandal; the first-ever political parties 'Leaders' Debate'; the uncertainty of the outcome of the election; the possibility of a hung parliament, have certainly invigorated it.

Personally, I am particularly fascinated by the unprecedented amount of campaigning and political activism by Muslims across the UK. Prospective Muslim parliamentary candidates are being fielded by parties in both metropolitan areas with significant Muslim populations and other areas with smaller numbers of Muslims.

More Muslims in the UK are likely to vote in this election than in any before; it features the largest number of prospective Muslim parliamentary candidates representing both the main three parties and also the smaller parties such as Respect, the Green party, UKIP, SNP to name a few; it may well be a major landmark when we have the first Muslim Monster Raving Loony Party Candidate!

This election is also likely to see the largest number of Muslim MPs being elected and could possibly see the election of the first Muslim female MP or MPs, such as, Rushanara Ali for Labour in Bethnal and Bow; Shabana Mahmood for Labour in Birmingham, Ladywood; Nusrat Ghani also for Birmingham, Ladywood; Sajid Javid in the Conservatives for Bromsgrove; it may also see the election of the first Tory Muslim MP.

Certainly, this level of political participation and activism is a positive indication of the integration of the Muslim community and the recognition Islam gives to civic participation.

However, despite this, there are still significant segments of the Muslim population who are somewhat sceptical, and, in some cases opposed to participating in the general election. This is down to two core factors; firstly the marginal view that voting is not permissible because to vote in a democratic system is fundamentally against the teaching of Islam; since God alone has the right to legislate.

Secondly, the disillusionment and resentment caused by a raft of policies and actions over the last 15 years which have been detrimental to Muslims in the UK, such as, the anti-terror laws, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, inertia in relation to the Palestine/ Israel conflict to name a few.

However, the vast majority of Muslims believe that it is mandatory to participate in the elections and the democratic process. Senior Muslim scholars have issued rulings obliging Muslims to participate in the democratic process of their nation. There are also many examples of how Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), prior to his Prophethood was a responsible citizen and contributed towards the well-being of the society in which he lived even though it was not governed by Muslim rule.

Islam teaches Muslims to be good, responsible citizens. It is a misconception that Islam is not compatible with British society. Some of the core principles of Islam are honesty, justice, fairness for all people and truthfulness; these are also core British values. Therefore, contributing to the overall good of society is a core Islamic principle compulsory for all Muslims.

In view of the teachings of Islam, it is imperative that Muslims recognise that morally and ethically they are obliged to be concerned about the wellbeing of their society and to be responsible citizens and active participants.

There is no doubt that Muslims in Britain make an immense contribution to society across many fields: manufacturing, textile arts and sports industries; local government, health services and the teaching profession.

British Muslims should engage in and contribute to the politics of our country, not only out of personal interest but also for the common good of our society and our shared vision. As British citizens, we have concerns communal to us all regardless of our beliefs or ethnicity; for example we want an improved health service; better education; a strong civic infrastructure and excellent public services.

Naturally, Muslims have their own concerns such as the current anti-terror legislation, foreign policy; employment; housing; stop and search policing; state-funded faith schools; religious dress codes and Islamophobia. Muslims need to make their voice heard about the policies which concern them; participation in politics is one legitimate channel to make a difference. After all, MPs are elected to represent their constituents and they do have a direct influence on shaping policy.

If Muslims have the ability to prevent policies that may harmful to them then it they are required to take action. For example, it is binding upon all Muslims to deter far-right parties which hold racist and Islamophobic views. Disassociating from the political system and not casting a vote will inevitably be a catalyst for these parties to gain momentum.

That is why I think that all of the Muslim community of Britain must vote. There are at least 2.5 million Muslims in Britain and our vote will make a difference.

It is critical that we facilitate integration through political participation. If Muslims choose to become apathetic and disengage from politics then there is the danger that they will be susceptible to misrepresentation and will not have a say in shaping or influencing policies. Voting for a party does not necessarily mean that one has be in agreement with all the policies that they uphold.

One effective way of combating religious hatred and Islamophobia and promoting peace, community cohesion and a better understanding of Islam is to get involved in the election process and to choose the right leader.

Sajda Khan on Yes, Faith Schools are a Good Thing | Being Muslim at Christmas