Cllr Sirajul Islam calls for unity and compassion in Tower Hamlets following rise in hate and division

In an open letter to Mayor Lutfur Rahman, Cllr Sirajul Islam has called for local leaders to come together in the face of rising hate and division. Citing the recent terrorist attack in Manchester, the BBC Panorama investigation into racism and misogyny in the Metropolitan Police, and plans for far-right protests in Whitechapel, Cllr Islam urged that Tower Hamlets must “lead with compassion, not division” and remain a borough where everyone feels safe, valued and heard.

6/10/2025

Subject: Standing United Against Hate and Division

Dear Mayor Rahman,

I write to you with a heavy heart, reflecting on the troubling events that continue to affect our communities, both locally and nationally.

The terrorist attack in Manchester this weekend has shocked the nation. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those impacted by this senseless act of violence. Such moments remind us of the urgent need to stand together against hatred in all its forms.

The recent BBC Panorama investigation into the Metropolitan Police has further shaken public confidence. The revelations of racism, misogyny and Islamophobia among officers are deeply concerning, particularly for residents in Tower Hamlets who already feel marginalised. Trust in our institutions is vital, and it must be rebuilt through transparency and accountability.

On 25th October, our borough will once again be tested as UKIP and far-right groups plan to protest in Whitechapel. Their presence is not welcome, and their message of division has no place in our community. We must face this challenge together united in our commitment to peace, respect and solidarity.

“In moments like these, we must put people before politics. Our residents are looking to us for leadership, unity and hope.”
— Cllr Sirajul Islam

Mayor Rahman, you and I have both served this borough for many years. Though we may have had political differences, we share a deep love for Tower Hamlets and a lifelong commitment to its people. We have more in common than what divides us: we are both long-standing activists, shaped by the struggles and aspirations of our communities. We have stood shoulder to shoulder in the past, and I believe we must do so again now.

What affects one part of our borough affects us all. In moments like these, we must put people before politics. We must lead with compassion, not division. Our residents are looking to us for leadership, unity and hope.

I urge you to meet with me at your earliest opportunity so we can discuss how we can work together to ensure Tower Hamlets remains a place where everyone feels safe, valued and heard.

Together, we can show that we are stronger in the face of division.

Yours sincerely,
Cllr Sirajul Islam