A former Tower Hamlets mayor, previously ousted from office for electoral fraud violations, has sparked fresh controversy by defending a local mosque's decision to ban women and girls over twelve from participating in a charity fun run.
Lutfur Rahman, who was removed as mayor in 2015 after being found guilty of corrupt and illegal practices, has thrown his support behind the East London Mosque's controversial policy for their upcoming fundraising event. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from equality campaigners and local residents who describe the exclusion as "deeply concerning."
Fraudster-Turned-Defender
The mosque, located in the heart of one of London's most diverse boroughs, is organising a 5km charity run to raise funds for community projects. However, organisers have explicitly stated that participation is restricted to "males only," effectively barring women and girls aged twelve and above from taking part.
Mr Rahman, who has since returned to local politics despite his previous misconduct conviction, argued that the mosque was merely exercising its religious freedoms. "Community organisations should have the right to organise events in accordance with their beliefs," he stated, dismissing concerns about discrimination.
Growing Backlash
Local equality advocates have expressed outrage at both the mosque's policy and Rahman's defence of it. Sarah Wilkinson, a women's rights campaigner in Tower Hamlets, told reporters: "In 2024, it's unacceptable to exclude women and girls from community events, especially those claiming to be for charity. This sends a damaging message about women's place in our society."
The controversy comes at a sensitive time for Tower Hamlets, which has faced numerous challenges regarding community cohesion and equal representation in recent years. Many residents have taken to social media to express their disappointment, with some questioning how such exclusionary practices align with British values of equality and inclusion.
Pattern of Controversy
This isn't the first time Lutfur Rahman has found himself at the centre of political storm. His previous tenure as mayor ended in disgrace after an electoral court found him guilty of multiple corrupt practices, including false statements about opponents and improper influence on religious leaders.
Despite his controversial past, Rahman successfully regained the mayor's office in 2022, though many continue to question his fitness for public office given his history of electoral fraud and now his stance on gender exclusion in community events.
As the debate continues, community leaders are calling for dialogue between the mosque administration and concerned residents to find a solution that respects both religious practice and gender equality principles.
