To build a harmonious society we must respect the religious rights of people

In response to the comments by Boris Johnson regarding the burqa, Rafiq Hayat, National President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK said:

“The remarks made by former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson are deplorable. Rather than seeking to use his position to promote dialogue and understanding he has used it to mock and ridicule Muslim women.

“On the one hand he opposes a ban on the burqa and on the other he demeans those who choose to wear it. Through this is reinforces the Islamphobic stereotype of Muslim women.

“Muslim women must be free to follow their faith and dress as they wish. There has never been any conflict between their faith and the law of the land. Where necessary they must show their face for example for the sake of identity and security, but beyond that their freedoms must be respected.

“To build a harmonious society we must respect the religious rights of people.

“Muslim women have made an amazing contribution to the UK. Let us celebrate that rather than pander to anti-Muslim prejudice.”