May 8, 2026

The British public has sent a clear message with the results of the local elections – they demand change in our leadership. On every issue of concern, from the economy and housing to overseas conflicts and the ever-growing cost-of-living crisis, our political leadership has failed to provide solutions that resonate. 

Whilst the traditional duopoly between the major parties has fragmented and a new generation has become more politically engaged, we note in particular the scale of Reform UK’s wins. A party, many of whose senior figures and candidates have engaged openly in Islamophobia, denied the lived reality of immigrants, and built campaigns on the scapegoating of minority communities, has been rewarded with the most council seats so far. We cannot ignore that and must rise to the challenges this brings for us as a country. 

The Muslim Council of Britain’s response will be threefold. First, we will build on our Hungry For Change campaign by increasing political engagement ahead of the general elections, encouraging more voters, expanding political education, and increasing participation in civil society. 

Second, holding politicians accountable: every councillor and public servant will be held to account by those they represent for what they say and do in office. Finally, we will continue to build the infrastructure for political engagement with more resources, action and greater coordination at the grassroots level.

Dr Wajid Akhter, Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain, said: “No result can change the fact that this is our home. No politician or policy can make us strangers in our own streets. And no amount of hate will intimidate us into changing who we are or what we believe. Success is not final, failure is not fatal, it is the courage to rise to the challenge that counts.”

source https://mcb.org.uk/british-voters-demand-radical-change-and-british-muslims-must-play-their-part/