Public Statement 18 May 2026

The Rochdale Council of Mosques expresses its deep concern regarding the “Unite the Kingdom” march held in London on Saturday 16 May 2026. We have reviewed widely circulated footage and reports from the event which appear to show openly Islamophobic chants and messages, including statements such as “Who the F*** is Allah,” calls for Islam to be banned, and calls for Muslims to be removed from the United Kingdom. Such language is offensive, discriminatory, and has no place in a modern, democratic society.

We are also concerned by reports of individuals displaying placards containing anti-Muslim slogans, alongside social media content suggesting that British Muslims do not belong in the UK. In addition, there are troubling accounts of targeted hostility towards Muslim women, including those who choose to wear the niqab.

The right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression are fundamental to our democracy. However, these rights must never be used to justify hate speech or incitement against religious or ethnic groups. When such behaviour goes unchallenged, it risks increasing fear, division, and insecurity within communities across the country. We are further concerned that, based on publicly available information, there appears to have been limited visible enforcement action during the march. This raises important questions about the consistent application of hate crime legislation and the protection of all communities.

RCM has formally written to the Metropolitan Police seeking clarification on what actions were taken during the event, whether any arrests or investigations have been initiated, and what measures are being taken to reassure the Muslim community.

We wish to state clearly that British Muslims are an integral part of this country. They are as British as anyone else and are here to stay. British Muslims will continue to contribute positively to a flourishing United Kingdom—one built on fairness, opportunity, and respect, where people are not judged by their faith, race, or colour.

RCM stands firmly against all forms of hatred, racism, and religious intolerance. Islamophobia has no place in our society and must be addressed consistently and without exception. We call on public authorities, political leaders, and the media to take these issues seriously and to ensure that Islamophobia and Anti-Muslim hatred is challenged wherever it occurs. RCM remains committed to building stronger, more cohesive communities founded on mutual respect, dignity, and understanding.

Tahir Mahmood Chair, Rochdale Council of Mosque