LONDON (MNN); Hard-right British politician Nigel Farage has ignited political debate after stating he would ban large-scale Muslim prayer gatherings at historic sites if he becomes prime minister.
Farage, leader of Reform UK, criticised a recent open Iftar event held at Trafalgar Square, describing it as an attempt to “intimidate and dominate” British society. He called for restrictions on what he termed “provocative mass demonstrations” at heritage locations.
During a visit to Scotland, Farage said he supported banning all large-scale religious gatherings in public historic spaces. However, he specifically emphasized opposition to mass Muslim prayers, arguing that such practices should not take place in public settings.
The open Iftar event, held earlier this week, has triggered a wider political row. Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticised Conservative figures opposing the gathering, highlighting divisions within British politics over religious expression in public spaces.
The controversy intensified after Conservative MP Nick Timothy labelled mass public prayers as “an act of domination” in a post on X, suggesting such rituals should be confined to mosques.
Starmer urged Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch to take action against Timothy, while Badenoch responded that public religious events should remain inclusive and respectful of British traditions.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who attended the Iftar, strongly condemned the remarks, calling them “disgraceful” and accusing critics of promoting divisive rhetoric.
Trafalgar Square, one of London’s most iconic public spaces, regularly hosts cultural, political, and religious events, making the issue part of a broader debate over identity and public expression in the UK.
The issue reflects growing “culture war” tensions in British politics, with Reform UK maintaining strong polling positions ahead of the next general election scheduled for 2029.
