After receiving a number of enquiries on the issue, the following is a statement released by AIM regarding the upcoming UK General Elections taking place on 12th December 2019:
——
In His Name, the Most High,
In our assessment of the current political climate in the United Kingdom, the absence of a conscious Muslim vote would worsen the state of affairs in the country. Therefore, we believe it is a necessity for believers to take part in the elections as their vote could act to prevent the further degradation of society.
We recommend that believers vote bearing in mind the greater good while protecting noble and divine values. This means weighing up the different policies being presented and determining whether there is a message that resonates more overwhelmingly with our values.
Whilst having reservations on some policies, we believe it is worth mentioning that for the first time in a generation, we are witnessing a political discourse that speaks seriously about: improving social welfare, a sensible foreign policy which includes recognising the Palestinian cause, fairness and equality, combating all forms of racism, standing against tyranny and empowering the oppressed.
We believe this discourse put forward by the current Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn, who has a lifelong track record of fighting for these issues is deserving of attention and support.
The alternative is a government that: creates conditions of increased division and discrimination in its many forms including Islamophobia and xenophobia, widens the gap between the rich and the poor, ruins public services, sells more arms to oppressive regimes and seeks the continuation of wars.
Because of this and after consultation, AIM has decided to support Jeremy Corbyn in the upcoming UK General Elections and believes a government led by him would further more favourable outcomes for society.
We pray that the Almighty helps us achieve the lofty goals of our faith by establishing more justice and supporting the oppressed.
From God comes success.
Wasalaamu Alaikum
Ahlulbayt Islamic Mission (AIM)
26th November 2019